The 2025 SEC season ended on a disappointing note, but the Texas Longhorns, new to the conference, demonstrated their ability to compete at the highest level, coming close to a National Championship appearance. With Arch Manning stepping in as the leader in Austin and Texas boasting several top talents among the top 100 returning players in college football, do they also have a strong presence among the SEC’s top returning players in 2025?
If you’re a college football fan, you likely know that Alabama Crimson Tide wide receiver Ryan Williams is just 17 years old.
Originally a five-star recruit for the 2025 class, Williams reclassified to start his college career early. As a result, he will play his entire freshman season as a minor, turning 18 next February. This decision has already proven beneficial for both Williams and Alabama.
Through six games, he leads the Crimson Tide in receiving with 23 catches for 576 yards and six touchdowns. His breakout moment came against Georgia last month when he racked up 177 yards and a touchdown on six receptions—an incredible feat for any player, let alone a 17-year-old facing a Kirby Smart-led defense.
Williams’ choice to reclassify could become a trend among elite high school athletes, given the financial impact it may have on an NFL career. He is on track to enter the NFL Draft after his junior year in 2027, when he will still be just 20 years old. Playing his rookie season at that age sets him up for an early first contract extension, potentially after his third or fourth NFL season.
By securing his first major extension at 23 or 24, Williams could be in line for a second massive contract in his late 20s, followed by another solid deal in his early 30s. Many wide receivers secure only one major contract in their careers, but Williams’ early start could position him for multiple lucrative deals.
Other talented receivers have been in similar positions, though not quite as young. Justin Jefferson signed his first extension at 25, while Larry Fitzgerald, who debuted in the NFL at 21, extended his contract before turning 25. On the other hand, players like Brandon Aiyuk and Deebo Samuel didn’t secure their first extensions until 26.
While most 17-year-olds aren’t ready for Power Four college football, rare talents like Williams emerge occasionally—similar to past phenoms like Adrian Peterson, Leonard Fournette, Derek Stingley Jr., and Trevor Lawrence. If Williams’ path proves successful, more elite prospects might follow suit to maximize their earning potential in the NFL.