2023 (Redshirt)
James Williams played in four games while redshirting in his first season at Nebraska in 2023. He was disruptive as a pass rusher, finishing with 2.0 sacks among his four tackles.
He made his debut against Northwestern, posting a five-yard sack. Williams had one tackle and one quarterback hurry against Purdue. At Michigan State, Williams finished with two tackles, including a seven-yard sack.
Before Nebraska (Park Hill South HS/Iowa Western CC)
Williams joined Nebraska in the summer of 2023 after spending one season at Iowa Central Community College. Williams played his prep ball for Park Hill South High School in Missouri.
In his lone season at Iowa Central, Williams played in 11 games and recorded 19 tackles with 6.0 sacks, 7.0 tackles for loss, two forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries. Williams was the 2022 Game One Bowl Defensive MVP. His play helped the Triton defense limit opponents to fewer than 100 rushing yards per game.
At Park Hill South High School, Williams was a first-team all-state defensive lineman. As a senior, he was a finalist for the Buchanan Award in addition to being named the Suburban Red Conference Defensive Player of the Year. In his final season, Williams had 108 tackles, 35 tackles for loss and 18.0 sacks, according to MaxPreps.
Personal
James was born on June 16, 2004. James is the oldest of five: Regan, Caden, Ella and Sawyer Williams.