Demond Williams enters transfer portal days after re-signing with Washington

Another Power Four program is losing its starting quarterback, and it’s reportedly pursuing legal avenues in the aftermath.

Demond Williams announced Jan. 6 he’s entering the transfer portal despite re-signing with the school on Jan. 2, according to ESPN. With numerous high-level quarterbacks already committed, the Huskies are likely to search for a replacement despite being late to the punch.

The first-year full-time starter was one of the best dual-threat quarterbacks in the Big Ten in 2025, passing for 3,065 yards with 25 touchdowns to eight interceptions while rushing for 611 yards and six scores. He’s entering the transfer portal with a do-not-contact tag, according to ESPN.

A do-not-contact tag means teams can’t reach out to Williams first and can only communicate if the player initiates the conversation.

Williams spent a week at Arizona in early 2024 before following Washington coach Jedd Fisch to Seattle as a transfer. Williams was also initially committed to now-LSU coach Lane Kiffin at Mississippi before flipping to Arizona. He was the No. 12-ranked quarterback out of high school and will be one of the best available quarterbacks in the transfer portal two seasons later.

Demond Williams contract

Williams agreed to a new deal with Washington on Jan. 2 to return to the school next season, according to ESPN. However, four days after the transfer portal opened, Williams announced his decision to enter the transfer portal.

Washington is reportedly pursuing legal avenues to enforce his signed contract, according to ESPN. It’s an interesting turn of events, and a likely disappointing one for Washington. In addition, the Big Ten is reportedly taking interest in Williams’ transfer, after a similar situation occurred last season between Wisconsin and Miami.

Demond Williams stats

• 2024 (Washington): 82-of-105 passing (78.1%) for 944 yards with eight touchdowns to an interception; 83 carries for 282 yards with two touchdowns
• 2025 (Washington): 246-of-354 passing (69.5%) for 3,065 yards with 25 touchdowns to eight interceptions; 143 carries for 611 yards with six touchdowns