As Alabama heads into the 2026 spring practice, all eyes are on the playmaker Ryan Williams. After an electric freshman debut that saw him emerge as a 17-year-old phenom, the 2025 season proved to be a sophomore slump in its purest form. While many have tried to decode what may have caused this dip, one unexpected off-field reason is now being floated.
Conrad VanOrder Speculates on Ryan Williams’ 2025 Struggles
Conrad VanOrder recently joined “That SEC Podcast” to talk about Alabama and Williams. The Crimson Tide receiver’s yardage dipped from 865 to 689, and his touchdown production was halved from eight to four. VanOrder believed that Williams’ newfound love in Alexis Hill played a role.
“I hope that now that he’s engaged, maybe that helps him settle down. Maybe he was just a puppy love last year, and that’s what was messing with his head. But, you know, I think a couple [of] things that will help with him,” VanOrder said.
Williams announced his engagement to Hill on Valentine’s Day 2026. The couple has been publicly together since at least July 2025, with Hill frequently attending Alabama games and appearing on her social media wearing Williams’ No. 2 jersey.
“One is, you know, they tried to move him in the slot more last year. Just my assessment from what I saw with my own two eyes, the guy doesn’t like to get hit. Nobody does. But you play wide receiver in the SEC, you got to take those hits. And I think being able to move him back outside should make him more comfortable,” VanOrder continued.
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Dropped Passes and Deep-Ball Struggles
In 2025, Williams led FBS in dropped passes with 13, struggling significantly on deep balls. PFSN’s CFB WR Impact ranked him 114th in the nation. Many pointed to a lack of chemistry with the evolving quarterback room following Jalen Milroe’s departure, as well as the immense physical toll of playing high-level SEC ball as one of the youngest players in the country.
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Can Ryan Williams Bounce Back in 2026?
In addition, the issue could be psychological and difficult to shake. If the catching issues persist into 2026, he risks being overtaken by rising stars like Cederian Morgan. There is also the pressure of being the undisputed No. 1 receiver. Without veterans like Germie Bernard to draw coverage, Williams will face every opponent’s top cornerback and constant double teams.
Now 19 and physically maturing, he has the pedigree of a Heisman-caliber receiver. With a full offseason to build rapport with projected starters like Keelon Russell, his bounce-back potential is massive. He still managed nearly 700 yards in a down year, proving his floor is higher than most players’ ceilings.
