Sources: Washington quarterback Demond has agreed to a new deal to return to the Huskies for 2026. He’ll be one of the sport’s top quarterbacks next season. He accounted for 32 touchdowns last year through the air and ground.

Drama in Montlake: Demond Williams Jr.’s Sudden Reversal Shakes Washington Huskies
In a stunning turn of events that exemplifies the chaotic nature of modern college football, University of Washington quarterback Demond Williams Jr. has entered the transfer portal just days after agreeing to a lucrative new deal to return for the 2026 season. The sophomore dual-threat star, widely projected as one of the top quarterbacks in the nation next year, shocked Husky fans and analysts alike with his announcement on January 6, 2026.

The saga began on January 2, when ESPN’s Pete Thamel reported that Williams had signed a new NIL/revenue-sharing contract to stay in Seattle. Sources described the deal as “near the top of the market,” potentially worth millions, securing the dynamic playmaker under head coach Jedd Fisch. Williams, a Chandler, Arizona native who followed Fisch from Arizona to Washington, had just capped a breakout 2025 sophomore campaign. He led the Big Ten in total offense with 3,676 yards (approximately 3,065 passing and 611 rushing), accounting for 32 total touchdowns (25 passing, 7 rushing in some accounts). His highlights included a historic performance against Rutgers—402 passing yards and 132 rushing yards with four total TDs—making him one of only 16 FBS quarterbacks ever to achieve 400+ passing and 100+ rushing in a single game.
The Huskies finished 9-4, winning the LA Bowl 38-10 over Boise State, where Williams earned Offensive MVP honors. Returning starters like offensive tackle Drew Azzopardi and defensive tackle Elinneus Davis also reaffirmed their commitments, signaling stability for a program aiming for double-digit wins and a College Football Playoff push in the competitive Big Ten.

This flip-flop underscores the volatility of college football’s transfer portal and NIL landscape. What seemed like a cornerstone for Washington’s resurgence—retaining a Heisman contender-level talent—has devolved into potential courtroom drama. Fans at Husky Stadium, known for its electric atmosphere, now face uncertainty.

Williams’ talent is undeniable: a 5-foot-11, 190-pound scrambler with elite arm strength, accuracy (around 70% completion), and playmaking ability. Wherever he lands, he’ll instantly elevate a contender. For now, the Huskies’ 2026 aspirations hang in the balance amid this high-stakes NIL contract dispute.