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Demond Williams Jr., a college football player who ignited controversy by entering the transfer portal days after signing a lucrative name, image and likeness deal with Washington, announced late Thursday that he will remain with the Huskies. The abrupt reversal comes amid reports that the university was considering its legal options to enforce the contract.
Williams, 19, signed a NIL deal on Jan. 2 to remain as Washington’s quarterback through the 2026 season, a contract reportedly worth about $4 million. Days later — on the same day as the memorial service for Washington women’s soccer player Mia Hamant, who died in November after a long battle with kidney cancer — Williams announced his intention to enter the transfer portal.
Demon Williams Jr. of the Washington Huskies arrives for the game against the Oregon Ducks at Husky Stadium on November 29, 2025 in Seattle, Washington. (Blake Dahlin/ISI Photos/ISI Photos)
The decision and timing of Williams’ announcement was met with both shock and backlash.
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The fallout from that announcement prompted Williams’ agent, Doug Hendrickson, to drop the quarterback, citing “philosophical differences.” Williams then retained Florida-based attorney Darren Heitner amid reports that the university was exploring legal action to enforce the contract.
But in a shocking twist, Williams released a statement Thursday confirming he would stay with Washington.
“After thoughtful reflection with my family, I am pleased to announce that I will continue my football journey at the University of Washington. I am deeply grateful to my coaches, teammates and everyone in the program for fostering an environment where I can thrive both as an athlete and as an individual,” read his statement on social media.
“I am fully committed and focused on contributing to what we are building.”
Demon Williams Jr. of the Washington Huskies celebrates a touchdown against the Oregon Ducks in the second half at Husky Stadium on November 29, 2025 in Seattle, Washington. (Steph Chambers/Getty Images)
AGENT DUMPER WASHINGTON QUARTERBACK TRYING TO BREAK 4M CONTRACT DAYS AFTER SIGNING
Williams also apologized that his initial announcement “coincided with the celebration of the life of Mia Hamant, a beloved member of our university community. I never intended to distract from such an important moment.”
In his statement, head coach Jedd Fisch acknowledged the strain caused by the situation and said the program would work with Williams to repair relations and rebuild trust in the Husky community.
“Over the past few days, Demond and I have engaged in very frank and heartfelt conversations about his present and future. We both agree that the University of Washington is the best place for him to continue his academic, athletic and social development,” he said in a statement from the university.
Demon Williams Jr. of the Washington Huskies take on the Oregon Ducks in the first half at Husky Stadium on November 29, 2025 in Seattle, Washington. (Steph Chambers/Getty Images)
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“I appreciate Demond’s statement. I support him and we will work together to begin the process of repairing relationships and regaining the trust of the Husky community.”
Williams is a dual-threat quarterback who threw for 3,065 yards with 25 touchdowns and eight interceptions while also rushing for 611 yards and six scores during his sophomore season in Washington.
