Jimmy Williams, an offensive lineman from Fort Lauderdale, Fla., signed with Louisville earlier this month.
Fort Lauderdale, Florida Jimmy Williams, an American Heritage offensive lineman, grew up watching South Florida players go on to have excellent careers at the University of Louisville. Williams is now one of those players.
Williams, a 6-foot-4, 290-pounder, committed to Louisville in April, made three visits to campus, and was part of a 14-player recruiting class that signed with the Cardinals earlier this month. Williams will begin classes in June.
“South Florida is what makes Louisville great,” Williams explained to Cardinal Authority. “It feels good to be a part of the South Florida community.”
“I can’t wait to get there and get working.”
Williams, one of South Florida’s greatest linemen, helped American Heritage to a 23-4 record in his final two seasons. Williams, according to American Heritage coach Mike Smith, is “going to be a good one” at the University of Louisiana.
“He came here and was kind of just hiding in the locker room when we had legs days and such the first year or so,” Smith went on to say. “I believe he saw the results and began working harder once he committed to the work.”
“I’ve been telling him since he arrived that he has the size and is prepared. He gained confidence after putting in the effort and beginning to see results. I’ve told him that he’s only scratched the surface. He’s going to be great.”
Williams hails from a sporting family. Jimmy Williams Sr. was a wrestler who later joined the military, while his father, Jimmy Williams Jr., was a linebacker at Bethune Cookman. He claimed to have several other uncles that played as well.
When he was younger, Williams played a little basketball but was mostly on the gridiron.
And he said that his work ethic helped propel him to the top.
“Putting in the work when no one else is,” Williams explained as his secret. “I learned to sleep well, eat well, and work hard.”
“I was always the biggest and strongest, and when I got to high school, everyone caught up to me, which only motivated me to work harder.” Every man in my family participated in athletics, and I aspired to be successful. I started at American Heritage as a sophomore, and it’s been a fantastic environment for me to study and grow.”
Last season, Williams’ recruitment was going well until late in the season, when it made a major jump. Williams was “very good” down the stretch, according to Smith, including a big effort in the 2M state championship game against Reuben Bain.
“Something clicked with me,” added Williams. “I knew I had to bring the best and I felt like something clicked.”
Williams visited Louisville for the spring game and “loved what I saw,” and he committed to the Cardinals a few weeks later. Later in June, he paid an official visit.
“They are really good at what they do,” Williams remarked of the team. “After visiting Louisville, I knew I wanted to live there.” Coach Brohm is fantastic. I was blown away by what he showed me. We can sit and speak about anything, which I appreciate about him.”
During the season, Williams attended a game versus Boston College and stated it was “fun to see them dominated,” especially up front on the offensive line. ‘I talk to offensive line coach Richard Owens virtually every single day,’ he said.
“We have a really good connection to be at,” added Williams. “We talk all the time, and he’s always giving me homework or just checking in to see what I’m up to.” It’s been a pleasure getting to know him. I can hardly wait to get there.”
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