July 11, 200620 yr Sophomore Willie Williams, the nation's most highly recruited linebacker two years ago, has told coach Admin Coker that he's interested in transferring, Coker said Tuesday. Williams wants to go to a school where he will have an opportunity to be a starter, according to a UM source and another person very close to the situation. Though Coker stopped short of saying Williams' decision is final, a UM official said his departure is considered very likely barring a surprising change of heart. UM is expected to grant Williams' release once he picks a new school. Asked to confirm if Williams had requested a transfer, Coker said, ''I am aware of Willie's interest in transferring, and whatever is best for Willie, I will be in favor of.'' Coker did not comment further. Williams, a Carol City High graduate, was the only player who missed most of UM's voluntary offseason workouts. He could not be reached for comment, and it was unclear where he would transfer. WQAM's Orlando Alzugaray, who reported rumors of Williams' interest in transferring, has mentioned Tennessee as a possible destination. Williams would be required to sit out one season if he transfers to another Division I-A school. Williams entered spring practice No. 2 on the depth chart at weakside linebacker behind Jon Beason, who was considered UM's most productive linebacker last season. He then missed most of the spring drills because of a stomach virus. On his spring tour of the state to address alumni, Coker told one audience that he considered moving Beason to another linebacker position -- which would have created more playing time for Williams -- but his defensive coaches convinced him not to do that because Beason was so productive last season. Sophomore Spencer Adkins would be Beason's top backup if Williams leaves. Tavares Gooden and Romeo Davis are competing for the strong side linebacker position, and Glenn Cook and Darryl Sharpton are battling at middle linebacker. Williams entered UM amid considerable controversy. Shortly after Williams signed a letter of intent with UM in February 2004, the Hurricanes learned of his behavior during a January recruiting trip to the University of Florida. Williams eventually pleaded no contest to a felony misdemeanor for allegedly discharging hotel extinguishers during that recruiting trip and for allegedly hugging a female student against her will. A Broward County circuit court judge extended Williams' probation by three years and sentenced him to 250 hours of community service and ordered him to abstain from alcohol and illegal drugs and submit to random tests for both. Williams already w as on probation for a 2002 burglary charge -- one of 10 arrests for theft-related incidents. He has had no known legal incidents while at UM. The probation -- which runs through February 2007 -- would not necessarily preclude him from transferring. ''We'd probably have to take it in front of the judge to get an approval for transfer of probation,'' Williams' attorney, Paul Lazarus, said Tuesday. ``. . .Then it's a matter of getting the other jurisdiction to approve it, which is usually a matter of courtesy. Or we could ask for an early termination of his probation.'' UM's admissions office went through a ''rigorous process'' before allowing Williams to enroll, athletic director Paul Dee said at the time. Under terms of his admission, Williams was required to sit out the first four games of his freshman season. But that became moot in August 2004, when he suffered a torn knee ligament that forced him to miss the entire season. As the backup to Beason, Williams played in 10 games as a redshirt freshman last season. He had 17 tackles, two tackles for a loss and one quarterback pressure. Williams has said defensive coordinator Randy Shannon wanted him to be more disciplined and execute his assignment instead of freelancing. Though he missed the spring game April 15, Williams left the Orange Bowl field that day saying he would have a ''big role'' next season. ''It's one step back for me,'' he said that day. ``I want to bust heads.'' LINKAGE Kind of intresting that he is wanting to transfer...you have to be the best at the position to play obviously he isn't right now....sucks to lose a good talent...but the fact that he is a headcase and his ego has gotten the better of him
July 11, 200620 yr This guy was the most amazing high school football player i've ever seen. What a waste he has been so far.
July 12, 200620 yr He should go to Michigan. UM! He's probably not smart enugh, though. I've actually heard he's a bright kid, but most likely he'll wind up transferring to prison.
July 12, 200620 yr He should go to Michigan. UM! He's probably not smart enugh, though. Former Buckeyes, yes. But, they got National Championship rings. they also have had pretty bracelets around their hands as well.....
July 12, 200620 yr He should go to Michigan. UM! He's probably not smart enugh, though. All I'm saying is, you guys need the help.
July 12, 200620 yr He should go to Michigan. UM! He's probably not smart enugh, though. I've actually heard he's a bright kid, but most likely he'll wind up transferring to prison.:lol :lol Duh U! If you want to listen to his cell phone's message right click this link: http://vmedia.rivals.com/uploads/903/370665.wma It's legit, no joke.
July 12, 200620 yr He is foolish but whatever. If he cant make it to the starting squad screw him. Personally I think he should give it time and keep trying he has been injured and would most likely earn a starting spot if he could put that talent to use.
Join the conversation
You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.
Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible.