Williams entering transfer portal despite new Washington deal

Washington quarterback Demond Williams will enter the NCAA transfer portal.

"I have to do what is best for me and my future," Williams said in a statement obtained by The Athletic's Chris Vannini. "After much thought and prayer, I will be entering the transfer portal."

The sophomore quarterback backed off his pledge to remain with the program after reportedly signing a new deal on Jan. 2 to stay with Washington. Williams will have a do-not-contact tag when he enters the portal, according to ESPN's Pete Thamel.

Washington is prepared to pursue legal avenues to enforce the contract the school signed with Williams, per Thamel. The situation has also apparently drawn the Big Ten's attention.

Williams spent the past two seasons with the Huskies. The Chandler, Arizona, native passed for 3,065 yards and 25 touchdowns in 2025 while rushing for 611 yards and six scores.

The 5-foot-11, 190-pound quarterback followed head coach Jedd Fisch to Washington after initially committing to him at Arizona. Williams passed for 215 yards and four touchdowns in Washington's 38-10 win over Boise State in the LA Bowl in December.

The Huskies lack experience under center following Williams' departure, with Treston McMillan, Dash Beierly, and Derek Zammit filling out the depth chart.