Elite 2026 LB Izayia Williams names top five schools

Leesburg (Fla.) Tavares four-star linebacker Izayia Williams is once again closing in on a college decision.

The former Louisville, Syracuse and Florida State commit told On3’s Hayes Fawcett on Thursday evening that he is now down to five schools: Alabama, Florida, Florida State, Georgia and Penn State.

Williams is the No. 108 overall prospect and No. 7 LB in the 2026 cycle, according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies. He’s also the No. 20 player in Florida.

On3 ranks Williams much higher than other recruiting services. He checks in as the No. 40 recruit, No. 2 LB and No. 5 player in the Sunshine State, per the 2026 On300.

Earlier this month, Williams was impressive at Under Armour All-America week. His performances caught the eye of On3 National Scout Cody Bellaire:

“Izayia Williams jumped on our radar from the start of practice. He was one of the most physically impressive linebackers in attendance. Williams started off a little slow during practice but was one of the best linebackers in the game, tallying seven tackles. He has quite the future ahead of him if the game was any indication,” Bellaire wrote.

When speaking with On3 ahead of the All-America game, Williams said that he was eyeing a July 4 commitment. He’s coming off a stellar junior campaign that saw 137 total tackles, 22 tackles for loss, six sacks, five pass breakups and an interception.

Williams is planning to visit Alabama next month. The Crimson Tide have long caught the 6-foot, 200-pounder’s eye.

“I love the energy during the games and stuff. The coaches, they’ve got a plan for everybody that they are recruiting,” Williams said of Bama. “I feel like SEC football is the best football to play in college, so I think that’s what it is. Alabama has great coaches.”