LSU targets Demond Williams amid growing quarterback need

In a shocking turn of events, Washington quarterback Demon Williams Jr. decided to enter the transfer portal despite signing a new NIL deal that was set to keep him with the Huskies in 2026.

Following news of his move circulating, CBS Sports’ Matt Zenitz reports that “LSU is expected to be a team to watch as a possibility with Washington QB transfer Demond Williams.”

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The LSU Tigers, under Lane Kiffin, have been desperately searching for a quarterback for the first year of a new era, and Williams would undoubtedly be a significant coup.

He fits a similar profile to Kiffin’s former quarterback, Trindad Chambliss, who has proceeded to become one of the best in college football. LSU has the money to spend and motivation, though there are plenty of moving factors in Williams’ pending portal entry.

Reputable reporter Pete Thamel wrote on Jan. 2 that “Washington quarterback Demond Williams has agreed to a new deal to return to the Huskies for 2026” via a post on X.

Williams seemed set to stay, preparing for another year alongside head coach Jedd Fisch, though on Tuesday night, Thamel broke the news that the sophomore will enter the transfer portal despite signing a deal to stay.

“Washington QB Demond Williams is entering the transfer portal, per a source. He’ll have a do-not-contact tag on his entry,” Thamel reported.

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What is next for Demond Williams and Washington?

The modern era of the NIL has tested the legal limits of agreements and has seen players exercise unprecedented freedom in their future playing careers, going back on decisions in an attempt to do what is best for them.

Williams is another example of a player proceeding accordingly, seemingly going back on a deal that he signed, though Washington is intent on keeping the signal caller in his world.

“Demond Williams signed a deal to return to Washington last week. It will be interesting to see this unfolds with that deal at Washington in place. Sources indicated to ESPN that the deal he signed was near the top of the market,” Thamel added in his reporting.

“Washington sources say they are prepared to pursue all legal avenues to enforce Demond Williams’ signed contract.”