BREAKING: LSU DT Target Damonic Williams Reveals Transfer Destination
This week, LSU football pulled out all the stops for their prime target in the NCAA Transfer Portal, Damonic Williams. After completing official visits to LSU, Oklahoma, Texas, and Missouri, the top-ranked defensive tackle in the transfer market has made his decision.
Announcing his choice on social media Thursday night, Williams revealed he’ll be joining the Oklahoma Sooners after a rigorous evaluation of his options in the Transfer Portal.
Here’s a glimpse behind the scenes of Williams’ decision-making process:
Williams kicked off his visits with a trip to Oklahoma for their spring game on April 20, where the program left a strong impression. Evaluating both on-field opportunities and off-field offerings, the NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) package presented by Oklahoma was particularly noteworthy.
New: #LSU continues the press for TCU DL Damonic Williams as his visit wraps up on Wednesday.
More intel on an "amazing" visit and what's next for the highly-touted transfer: https://t.co/j95B7Tgxvl
Just $1 for your 1st month of @BengalTigerOn3: https://t.co/e5O1x9TPal pic.twitter.com/wuCDHQSOZa
— Billy Embody (@BillyEmbody) May 1, 2024
Next, Williams headed to Austin for an extended visit with the Texas Longhorns, where he was lavishly hosted by Steve Sarkisian and the coaching staff. The Longhorns went all out, accommodating him at the Four Seasons Hotel and even providing a Lamborghini for his city exploration.
Where do I start this entire process has been a whirlwind. Sooner nation I want you to know at the end of the day I chose you because of relationships with Coach V & Coach Bates & the staff. They were genuine & I believe in their ability to develop me as a man & a player &… pic.twitter.com/gjiOCbwpRd
— Damonic Williams (@DamonicWilliams) May 3, 2024
However, there was a twist in the tale as Williams altered his plans, skipping a visit to Colorado in favor of checking out Missouri.
My co-worker Mason Young wrote about @DamonicWilliams who was raised by his mother Cicily and grandmother alongside brothers Joshua and Devin.
His hero? His mother twice overcame cancer while he was growing up.
Williams pledged to #Sooners tonight.https://t.co/QTHg004yo0
— Eric Bailey (@EricBaileyTW) May 3, 2024
Lastly, Williams journeyed to Baton Rouge, arriving Monday night and departing late Wednesday afternoon. Initially considered a strong contender, LSU faced fierce competition from Texas and Oklahoma, who made compelling last-minute pitches.
Reports indicate that both Texas and Oklahoma made significant NIL offers and had direct discussions with Williams before his decision was made public. Ultimately, the allure of Oklahoma’s NIL package, coupled with the opportunity to compete in the SEC, proved irresistible.
#LSU misses out on TCU defensive tackle transfer Damonic Williams:https://t.co/qn3iELRxrm pic.twitter.com/rDP1m7nHxl
— TigerDroppings (@TigerDroppings) May 3, 2024
Throughout the process, Williams was supported by his mother, brother, and mentor, with his mother reportedly favoring Oklahoma from the outset.
With his decision made, Williams, the top uncommitted defensive tackle in the Transfer Portal, will bring his talents to the Oklahoma Sooners as they gear up for their inaugural season in the SEC.
Stay tuned to LSU Country for updates on LSU’s pursuit of defensive tackle prospects as they aim to bolster their roster.