Five-star WR recruit de-commits from Alabama after Nick Saban retirement

It begins: the first major de-commitment from Alabama after news broke that head coach Nick Saban is retiring from football

The bombshell news that Nick Saban has decided to retire from football will have a ripple effect across the Alabama program and the sport nationally, and now the first step has been taken as five-star wide receiver prospect Ryan Williams has de-committed from the Crimson Tide.

Williams, rated as the No. 4 wide receiver and No. 12 prospect nationally on the 247Sports Composite, told On3 Sports of his intention to depart Alabama for the coming season, and that Saban's decision to retire was the major reason.

Williams told On3 Sports: “First off I would like to thank God, my family, and anyone else who has helped me make it to this point… but with careful consideration with my family I will be de-committing from the University of Alabama … respect my decision.”

Given that he didn't sign with Alabama during the early signing period, Williams was not bound by the National Letter of Intent.

"[Williams is an] electric playmaker with excellent top-end speed and make-you-miss elusiveness," 247Sports recruiting analyst Greg Brooks said of Williams. 

"Requisite height and length on a sinewy, wiry frame that will hold some more mass. Dynamic receiver outside or in the slot with personnel flexibility to take hand-offs now and then. Enormously productive with high per-touch rates. Provides an immediate return game option at the next level."

Williams caught 72 passes for 1,324 yards and scored 19 touchdowns in his final season at Saraland (Ala.). He finished his varsity career with 39 grabs for 3,254 yards and 47 touchdown receptions.

(On3)

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