Alabama freshman wide receiver Ryan Williams is already making headlines — not just for his immense talent, but for who he’s learning from. This offseason, Williams has been soaking in invaluable wisdom from one of the most iconic names in Crimson Tide history: DeVonta Smith. The former Heisman Trophy winner and two-time national champion has taken the young phenom under his wing, offering mentorship that goes far beyond the football field.
For Williams, who reclassified to join Alabama’s 2024 class a year early, the transition to college football has been accelerated. But few freshmen have the benefit of learning directly from someone who not only wore the same jersey, but redefined what it means to be elite at the position. Smith, now a star in the NFL with the Philadelphia Eagles, has shared detailed insights with Williams about route running, preparation, mindset, and the discipline it takes to sustain success at the highest level.
“Just having someone like DeVonta in my corner means everything,” Williams said in a recent interview. “He’s been through the process, he knows what it takes, and he’s not sugarcoating anything. He’s helped me understand that talent only gets you so far — the real separation is in the work.”
Coaches at Alabama are already seeing the benefits. Williams has come into offseason workouts with a level of maturity and focus that belies his age. He’s drawn praise for his work ethic and attention to detail — qualities Smith was known for during his time in Tuscaloosa.
Smith’s influence extends beyond technique. He’s been candid with Williams about the mental aspects of the game: handling pressure, staying humble, and approaching each day with a championship mindset. That mentorship is invaluable for a young athlete navigating the high expectations that come with playing at Alabama.
For Alabama fans, the connection between Williams and Smith is an exciting sign of continuity in a program that’s built its identity on elite wide receiver play. If Williams can absorb even a fraction of what Smith accomplished in his college career, he’ll be well on his way to stardom.
As Williams prepares for his first season in Tuscaloosa, he’s not just chasing greatness — he’s learning directly from it. Under the guidance of one of the best to ever do it, Ryan Williams is laying the foundation for what could be a legendary career
of his own.
