At the conclusion of the TaxSlayer Bowl between Kentucky and Georgia Tech, UK star running back Stanley “Boom” Williams made an announcement on his future.
He will forgo his senior season — and will instead enter the 2017 NFL Draft.
“There were a lot of things that played into that (decision),” Williams said. “Me and my family talked last night, just finalized the decision last night and told Coach Stoops after the game. It wasn’t an easy decision; it was very tough. I was stuck in a hard place in whether I wanted to come back or whether I wanted to leave. At the end of the day, we came to the decision to leave for the NFL.”
Williams has led the Wildcats in rushing for three-straight years. Over the course of his career, the Georgia native has accrued 2,511 yards rushing and 18 touchdowns. His consistency at the running back position has been a bright spot for Mark Stoops, as he continues to build his program in Lexington.
With Williams gone next season, Kentucky will pivot to Benny Snell Jr. The Ohio native had a stellar freshman campaign — rushing for 1,057 yards and 13 touchdowns.
Kentucky head coach Mark Stoops provided some comments on Williams decision.
“Boom and I had several discussions, and met with his family, and I gave them the information I had received from the NFL,” Stoops said. “He and his family decided the best time was now and he notified me after my press conference (following the bowl game).
“I appreciate all of Boom’s efforts for this program and what he’s meant to this team, the great player that he is. I wish him nothing but success in the future. He’ll always be part of the Wildcat family.”
