Alabama's Ryan Coleman-Williams Takes on Expanded Leadership Role

The 19-year-old junior wide receiver is among the Crimson Tide's most experienced pass-catchers heading into the 2026 season.

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Alabama wide receiver Ryan Coleman-Williams, who burst onto the scene as a 17-year-old sensation, is now 19 and among the Crimson Tide's most experienced pass-catchers. Head coach Kalen DeBoer praised Coleman-Williams' leadership and work ethic, noting that the junior has taken on an expanded role to help guide the team's young receiving corps amid significant roster turnover.

Why it matters

Coleman-Williams' leadership will be crucial for Alabama's offense as it looks to replace several key contributors from last season, including potential 2026 NFL Draft pick Germie Bernard. The junior's ability to mentor the younger receivers and set the tone with his work ethic could be a major factor in the Crimson Tide's success this upcoming season.

The details

Coleman-Williams is coming off a solid sophomore campaign where he tallied 49 receptions for 689 yards and four touchdowns, though he also had numerous drops that impacted his numbers. This offseason, he has taken on a more vocal leadership role, with DeBoer praising his energy, enthusiasm, and intentional focus on improving. Coleman-Williams has also made a notable jersey change, switching to No. 1 and adding his mother's last name 'Coleman' to the back of his jersey.

  • Coleman-Williams burst onto the scene as a 17-year-old freshman in 2024.
  • In the 2025 season, Coleman-Williams had 49 receptions for 689 yards and four touchdowns.
  • Alabama announced its new jersey numbers for the 2026 season on March 6, with Coleman-Williams switching to No. 1 and adding his mother's last name to his nameplate.

The players

Ryan Coleman-Williams

A 19-year-old junior wide receiver for the Alabama Crimson Tide who is among the team's most experienced pass-catchers heading into the 2026 season.

Kalen DeBoer

The head coach of the Alabama Crimson Tide football team, who praised Coleman-Williams' leadership and work ethic.

Germie Bernard

A wide receiver for Alabama who is currently in the 2026 NFL Draft process.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Well Ryan, you may have someone that's played as many snaps as anyone on our offense. That's, again, [roster] turnover speaks to that. But he's taken that on. He's taken on a leadership role. In order to lead and be vocal like he has, it's in him. He brings an energy and an enthusiasm that you guys all see. It's nonstop. In order to do that you have to do the work.”

— Kalen DeBoer, Head Coach, Alabama Crimson Tide (si.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.