Massive Pickup! Florida State lands Nebraska DE transfer James Williams
Florida State has picked up another defensive transfer from Nebraska, and this is a big one — 6-foot-6, 250-pound defensive end James Williams.
Williams’ commitment comes on Tuesday afternoon, right after his official visit to Florida State. It was his first and only trip since entering the transfer portal last week.
The key part of this recruitment was Williams’ close relationship with the new Florida State defensive line coach, Terrance Knighton, who was hired away from Nebraska earlier this month. Their relationship was described as “father-son like” when they were with the Cornhuskers.
In 2024, Williams played 188 snaps. He registered 14 total tackles, 5.5 for loss and 5 sacks. Those sacks earned him the nickname, “Sackman,” from Knighton.
Williams was with Cornhuskers in 2023 as well, but he only played in four games, which allowed him to preserve his redshirt.
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When he wrapped up his official visit on Tuesday, Williams hinted that he might be joining the Seminoles.
“It was a great experience, got to meet the staff, everyone was super nice and I loved my time here and loved Tallahassee,” Williams said. “I can really see myself being here in the future.”
Prior to transferring to Nebraksa, Williams was at Iowa Central Community College and had 19 total tackles, six sacks and two forced fumbles in 2022. He should have two more years of eligibility remaining with the Seminoles.
Florida State earlier landed a commitment from Nebraska linebacker transfer Stefon Thompson.
*ALSO SEE: More from Williams’ interview before his commitment
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