"Gators best choice" "It's Alabama": Hoops fans debate 4-star LB Izayia Williams' potential destination as he announces his top 5 schools

Izayia Williams, a four-star linebacker from Tavares, Florida, has narrowed his college options to Florida State, Florida, Alabama, Georgia and Penn State. This decision comes after Williams, once committed to Florida State, reopened his recruitment earlier this year.

Fans are split on where the No. 7 linebacker in the 2026 class should land.

“It’s Alabama,” one fan declared.

Another argued:

“Gators best choice here tbh.”

Here is how other fans reacted:

"UF! We won’t back down!!" A fan quipped

"he’s got about 11 more commitments in him before he signs," another stated.

"Looking at the list. 4 southern schools + Penn St & from FL. Think there is a 99.999% chance he stays in south," a fan remarked.

Williams is fresh off a stellar junior season at Tavares High School. On defense, he racked up 125 tackles, 15 tackles for loss, four sacks, a fumble recovery and an interception returned 57 yards for a touchdown.

On offense, he added 423 rushing yards on 23 carries, scoring six touchdowns, and caught five passes for 97 yards with four more touchdowns.

The Florida native recorded double-digit tackles in eight games, including a season-high 20 in a narrow 15-12 loss to Mount Dora. In a 28-7 win over Deltona, Williams showcased his two-way talent with 103 rushing yards, two scores, 15 tackles and a tackle for loss. Tavares finished 2024 with a 7-3 record.

At the Under Armour All-America week, Williams impressed scouts, including On3’s Cody Bellaire.

“Izayia Williams jumped on our radar from the start of practice. He was one of the most physically impressive linebackers in attendance. He has quite the future ahead of him if the game was any indication.”

Top linebacker Izayia Williams still weighing options

Izayia Williams, a highly regarded 6-foot-1, 205-pound linebacker, has navigated a tumultuous recruiting journey ahead of his senior season. Originally committing to Louisville in November 2023, Williams reopened his recruitment in January 2024.

He then pledged to Syracuse in April but de-committed by August. A brief commitment to Florida State followed in September, only to dissolve two months later in November.

Currently, Williams, ranked as the No. 117 overall prospect, No. 8 linebacker and No. 18 player in Florida for the 2026 cycle by 247Sports, is still evaluating his options.

Florida State remains in the mix, aiming to secure an official visit date with the talented defender. Last fall, Williams visited FSU, Florida and Alabama, with the latter leaving a lasting impression.

“I love the energy during the games and stuff. The coaches, they’ve got a plan for everybody that they are recruiting,” Williams said of Alabama. “I feel like SEC football is the best football to play in college, so I think that’s what it is. Alabama has great coaches.”

Ranked No. 108 overall by the On3 Industry Ranking, Williams stands as the No. 20 prospect in Florida. On3, however, rates him significantly higher as the No. 40 overall recruit, No. 2 linebacker and No. 5 player in the state.