After a 35–10 victory over Central Washington University to start the football season, Weber State University cornerback Abraham Williams secured the title of Big Sky Player of the Week.
In Weber State’s win over Central Washington, Williams exhibited his exceptional skills by returning a kickoff 100 yards for a touchdown. While this marked his first kickoff return for a touchdown in the current season, it was his fifth such achievement during his time at Weber State University.
“Honestly, I don’t really think too much about it,” Williams said. “I mean, obviously it’s exciting, and it’s nice to have, but really I just stay in the moment and stay present and just worry about the next game. I take it day by day and stay in the present.”
In the 2022 football season, Williams solidified his reputation as a consensus All-American, having managed to return four kickoffs over 100 yards. Williams has been an asset to the Wildcats, having played a total of 16 games over two seasons.
Williams was the sole player in the entire NCAA to accomplish more than two 100-plus yard kickoff returns with 24 returns for 898 yards, boasting an impressive average of 37.4 yards per return. On the defensive front, Williams has also made significant contributions with two interceptions, one forced fumble, one pass break up and six tackles.
“After a kickoff return when I’m in the game I’m in the zone, but as soon as I hit the end zone, all the emotions come out,” Williams said.
Williams is the first player in Weber State history to maintain an average of 39.0 yards per return in kickoff returns, and he currently holds the No. 7 spot in career return yards as a Wildcat. In the list of all-time touchdowns from kickoff returns at Weber State, Williams ranks No. 2, only trailing behind former Wildcat star Rashid Shaheed.
With this Big Sky Player of the Week award, this marks Williams’ third POTW award after he was able to achieve this accomplishment twice last season.
“My main goal this season is to get All-American in kick returner, my main focus right now is to get All-American on defense as well or All-Conference,” Williams said. “I’m just trying to have a really great season as a defensive back and be the best one in the conference.”
Following their successful home opener against Central Washington, Williams and the Wildcats are gearing up for a nationally-ranked showdown against the University of Northern Iowa on Sept. 9 at 3 p.m., as they hit the road to Cedar Falls, Iowa.
