Ryan Williams: Injury, Jersey Number, Latest Update & What Really Happened

Alabama Crimson Tide fans were left holding their breath during the season opener in late August 2025, when sophomore wide receiver Ryan Williams suffered a concussion. In this comprehensive breakdown, we’ll explore how the hit happened, what number Ryan wears, his recovery outlook, and why this matters for Alabama’s offense moving forward.

1. The Incident: What Led to the Injury?

In a shocking turn of events during Alabama’s season opener against Florida State, Ryan Williams suffered a concussion late in the fourth quarter. The hit came after he dropped a pass and took a violent blow to the head with approximately 6:07 remaining in the game. Initially flagged for targeting on Florida State’s Earl Little Jr., the call was later overturned—a small silver lining amid a chaotic moment. Williams didn’t return to the game.

The team went on to lose 31–17—an upset considering Florida State’s struggles last season—and Williams finished with five receptions for 30 yards. This was a significant dip after his dominant freshman campaign.

2. What Jersey Does Ryan Williams Wear?

Ryan Williams lines up wearing jersey number 2 for the Alabama Crimson Tide. This motif has been consistent since his freshman breakout season.

3. Injury Background: Spring “Ding” to Concussion

Spring Injury (“Ding”)

Prior to the 2025 season, Williams endured a minor but concerning injury during spring practice—described by head coach Kalen DeBoer as a “little ding.” This resulted in him skipping a spring scrimmage on April 4 and sitting out most of spring ball as a precaution.

Nonetheless, DeBoer assured fans that it was nothing more than a precautionary measure. Williams was on track to be “ready to roll” by summer, thanks to his focused effort on improving strength and durability.

Season Opener Concussion

More recently, Williams sustained a concussion in the season opener, causing him to exit the game and sit out. His status for Alabama’s next matchup, against UL Monroe, remains uncertain as he undergoes further evaluation.

4. Why This Matters: Offensive Implications for Alabama

Williams’s health is pivotal for Alabama’s offense. As a sophomore who exploded onto the scene last year with 48 receptions, 865 yards, and eight touchdowns, his presence cannot be overstated.

With the departure of quarterback Jalen Milroe to the NFL, the offense now depends heavily on reliable targets like Williams to aid an evolving receiving corps and new QB tandem. His versatility in multiple receiving looks—inside, outside, boundary, field—is a strategic asset for the Tide. Ryan Williams injury update.

5. Recovery Outlook & What to Watch Next

• Spring Recovery: Rocky, but went as planned—Williams was cleared for summer after building up strength and durability.

• Concussion Protocol: After that head injury, he’ll progress through standard concussion steps. Alabama confirmed he will be monitored closely before a potential return.

• Watch Points:

  • Is he cleared for practice in the coming days?

  • Will he be available in week 2 against UL Monroe?

  • How is his agility and explosiveness after rest and rehab?

Summary Table

FAQs

Q1: What injury did Ryan Williams sustain?
He suffered a concussion in the season opener against Florida State and is currently undergoing evaluation.

Q2: What jersey number does Ryan Williams wear?
He wears number 2 for the Alabama Crimson Tide.

Q3: Was there a previous injury before this game?
Yes—a minor spring-related “ding” that caused him to miss spring scrimmages. He was expected to recover by summer.

Q4: How was his freshman season?
Remarkable—he posted 865 receiving yards, eight touchdowns, and 48 receptions, topping Alabama’s receiving leaderboard.

Q5: Is he expected to return soon?
As of now (August 31, 2025), his status is uncertain. He’s under concussion protocol, and any return depends on meeting medical benchmarks.