If not for a baffling loss to Wisconsin on Nov. 8, Washington football would have wrapped up the year on solid footing. Even with that setback and a 9-4 finish, the Huskies generated real momentum heading into 2026 after reaching a new contract agreement with rising quarterback Demond Williams Jr. The outlook around the program was largely positive, with many viewing Jedd Fisch’s team as a legitimate Playoff sleeper for next season. That optimism has now been replaced by uncertainty.
Williams is reportedly backing out of that agreement and entering the transfer portal with a do not contact tag. He released a public statement addressing the move, but it has done little to calm a frustrated fan base that feels blindsided by the decision.
“First, I want to thank everyone in the Washington program for everything they have done for me,” the sophomore posted on X, per ESPN’s Pete Thamel. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to be a part of Husky Nation. I want to give a special thank you to Coach Fisch, {offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach Jimmie Dougherty} and {quality control offensive coach JP Losman} for believing in me and helping me grow both on and off the field.
“I also want to thank my teammates for the memories, the hard work, and the relationships we built together. The friendships I’ve made here will last a lifetime, and I’ll always appreciate the time we shared. I also want to thank the fans and the Seattle community for the constant love and support during my time at Washington.”
Williams closed the message with remarks that are likely to sting for a fan base still trying to process the news. “I have to do what is best for me and my future,” he continued. “After much thought and prayer, I will be entering the transfer portal. Thank You.”
In a vacuum, the idea of Williams exploring other options might not seem shocking. Several Playoff contenders are still unsettled at quarterback, and other major programs are actively searching for upgrades at the position. Had this announcement come earlier in the offseason, it may have been easier to understand. Instead, it follows a public recommitment to Washington, making the move far more difficult for supporters to accept or defend.
There could eventually be additional context that explains the sudden change of heart, but for now, the optics are damaging. The situation has grown even more complicated with reports that Washington officials believe another program contacted Williams after he finalized his new deal. The university is said to be considering legal action based on alleged tampering.
Still, Washington cannot afford to dwell solely on the controversy. Fisch and his staff must quickly pivot toward finding a new answer at quarterback. Replacing Williams will not be easy. During the 2025 season, he completed 246 of 354 passes, good for a 69.5 percent completion rate, while throwing for 3,065 yards and 25 touchdowns. He also added a dynamic element on the ground, rushing for 611 yards and six more scores.
The Huskies entered the offseason with stability and belief. Now, they face a defining test of resilience as they attempt to regroup and chart a new path forward.