The University of Alabama has long been a breeding ground for elite wide receivers, producing some of the most dynamic playmakers in college football history. From Julio Jones to Amari Cooper, Jerry Jeudy to Jaylen Waddle, the Crimson Tide’s legacy at the position is unmatched. Now, another young star is looking to carve his own path in Tuscaloosa, and he’s getting guidance from one of the program’s most decorated alumni—DeVonta Smith.
Ryan Williams, the electrifying five-star wideout who reclassified to join Alabama a year early, has been making waves this offseason. But beyond his natural talent, what sets Williams apart is his willingness to learn from the best. And there are few better mentors than Smith, the 2020 Heisman Trophy winner and two-time national champion who has taken the young receiver under his wing.
A Mentor-Mentee Relationship Built on Excellence
DeVonta Smith’s resume speaks for itself. The slight-framed receiver out of Amite, Louisiana, silenced every doubter with his route-running precision, elite hands, and football IQ. Despite being labeled “too skinny” by some analysts, Smith dominated college football, finishing his career as Alabama’s all-time leader in receiving yards (3,965) and touchdowns (46). His 2020 season was one for the ages—1,856 yards and 23 touchdowns, capped by a historic performance in the national championship against Ohio State (12 catches, 215 yards, 3 TDs).
Now, Smith is passing on his knowledge to Williams, a player who shares many of the same traits—elite speed, sharp route-running, and an insatiable work ethic. The two have been working together this offseason, with Smith offering advice on everything from beating press coverage to handling the mental grind of SEC football.
For Williams, having a mentor like Smith is invaluable. “He’s been through everything I’m about to go through,” Williams said in a recent interview. “The way he approaches the game, the way he studies film—it’s next level. I’m just trying to soak up as much as I can.”
Ryan Williams: The Next Great Alabama Receiver?
Williams, a Saraland, Alabama, native, was one of the most sought-after recruits in the 2025 class before reclassifying to 2024. At 6’1” with 4.4 speed, he’s a nightmare for defenses, capable of taking the top off a secondary or making defenders miss in the open field. His high school tape is a highlight reel of explosive plays, showcasing his ability to separate, adjust to the ball, and turn short catches into long touchdowns.
But the jump from high school to the SEC is a monumental one, and that’s where Smith’s guidance comes into play. Smith, who faced similar challenges when he arrived at Alabama, understands the adjustments required to thrive in Nick Saban’s system. The playbook is complex, the competition is fierce, and the margin for error is slim.
“The biggest thing I’ve told Ryan is to trust the process,” Smith said. “There are going to be days when it feels overwhelming, but if you put in the work, it’ll click. And when it does, there’s no stopping you.”
Lessons Beyond the Field
Their connection goes beyond just football. Smith has also emphasized the importance of professionalism, media training, and handling the pressures that come with being a star at Alabama. The spotlight in Tuscaloosa is relentless, and every move a player makes is scrutinized. Smith, who was known for his quiet confidence and lead-by-example demeanor, has been teaching Williams how to navigate the noise.
“It’s not just about making plays on Saturday,” Smith said. “It’s about how you carry yourself every day. How you prepare, how you treat your teammates, how you handle adversity. That’s what separates the good from the great.”
Williams has taken those lessons to heart. Teammates and coaches have already praised his maturity and dedication, noting that he approaches practice with the focus of a veteran. That’s no accident—it’s a reflection of the wisdom he’s absorbing from Smith.
The Impact on Alabama’s Offense
With Williams now in the fold, Alabama’s receiving corps is stacked with talent. Alongside returning standouts like Kendrick Law and transfer additions, the Crimson Tide have the pieces to field one of the most explosive offenses in the country. And if Williams can translate his potential into production, he could be the next breakout star in a long line of Alabama receivers who have gone on to dominate at the next level.
Head coach Kalen DeBoer, who has a reputation for developing elite pass-catchers, is excited about Williams’ potential. “Ryan has all the tools,” DeBoer said. “But what’s really impressive is his willingness to learn. He’s not just relying on his talent—he’s putting in the extra work, and that’s what it takes to be great.”
Having Smith as a resource only accelerates that growth. The two have been seen working out together, with Smith offering tips on footwork, releases, and how to read coverages. Those small details can make all the difference in a receiver’s development, and Williams is getting a masterclass from one of the best to ever do it.
A Legacy in the Making
For Alabama fans, the sight of DeVonta Smith mentoring Ryan Williams is a full-circle moment. Smith, who once learned from older receivers like Calvin Ridley and Jerry Jeudy, is now paying it forward. And Williams, who grew up watching Smith torch defenses, is living out a dream by learning directly from his idol.
If Williams can even come close to replicating Smith’s success, the Crimson Tide will have yet another superstar on their hands. But more than stats or accolades, what stands out is the passing of the torch—a reminder that Alabama’s greatness isn’t just about individual talent, but about the culture of excellence that keeps the program at the top year after year.
As the 2024 season approaches, all eyes will be on Ryan Williams. And with DeVonta Smith in his corner, the sky’s the limit.
