Kalen DeBoer praises worth ethic of Ryan Coleman-Williams: ‘He wants it bad’
By Ethan Stone
Published:
Ryan Coleman-Williams posted an unforgettable freshman season at Alabama.
The then 17-year old totaled just over 800 yards receiving with 8 touchdowns, setting the stage for a highly-anticipated sophomore season where he simply struggled to match his production, logging 649 receiving yards with 4 receiving touchdowns.
While speaking to On3Sports’ Chris Low this week, Coleman-Williams promised a reversal in that trend while insisting he’s healthy and ready to go for 2026. “Physically and mentally, I’m in a lot better place,” he told Low. “You’re going to see me whole again.”
Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer appears to agree.
While speaking at the SEC spring meetings in Florida, DeBoer praised Coleman-Williams’ work ethic and mentioned that he has been grinding in the weight room, focused on bringing his production back to 2024 levels. He called on fans to support Coleman-Williams heading into the new season.
“He’s doing the work behind the scenes,“ DeBoer said, via AL.com. ”It’s silent right now because no one is really paying attention and it’s summer time. The guy is grinding. He wants it bad. He’s the ultimate competitor.”
There’s a lot of potential in Alabama’s passing game heading into next season, but also some unknowns. Coleman-Williams’ growth is just the tip of the iceberg.
Redshirt freshman quarterback Keelon Russell’s potential is palpable, and incoming transfer WR Noah Rogers is a guy to watch coming off 2 consistent seasons at NC State. Lotzeir Brooks, a rising sophomore who was instrumental in Alabama’s win over Oklahoma in the College Football Playoff, is also ready to jump at an opportunity to shine again for the Crimson Tide.
Ethan Stone is a Tennessee graduate and loves all things college football and college basketball. Firm believer in fouling while up 3.
