University of Washington wide receiver Justice Williams is currently leading the competition for the third starting position, demonstrating his potential throughout spring practices.

Open Competition for Key Role

The competition for the third starting wide receiver position at UW remains open, considered the most unsettled starting role on the team. Coaches are evaluating several candidates, including freshmen Jordan Clay, Trez Davis, and Mason James, hoping for immediate impact.

Ohio State transfer Bodpegn Miller has also received reps, while sophomore Chris Lawson and Kennesaw State transfer Christian Moss are working to regain full health and compete for the spot.

Justice Williams Emerges as Frontrunner

As spring practice nears its conclusion with the Spring Game on Friday night, Justice Williams has become the leading contender. He is currently working with the first-team offense alongside returning starters Dezmen Roebuck and Rashid Williams.

This creates a unique scenario for opposing defenses, as the Huskies could open the season with quarterback Demond Williams Jr. targeting two players named Williams, potentially causing confusion.

Williams' Physical Attributes and Coaching Focus

Justice Williams, a 6-foot-3, 219-pound sophomore from Westlake Village, California, is the largest of the Williams receivers. UW receivers coach Kevin Cummings believes Williams has the size and physicality to succeed, but needs to refine his technique.

Cummings emphasized the importance of Williams leveraging his size while also developing agility and finesse to create separation. He explained that large receivers must master both power and subtlety.

Past Experience and Current Challenges

Williams appeared in four games during the 2026 season, recording two receptions for 28 yards against UC Davis before an injury ended his season. He is now fully recovered and has a significant opportunity to earn a starting position.

Quarterback Demond Williams has shown a preference for targeting Williams in the end zone. However, Williams faces tough competition in practice from cornerbacks like Dylan Robinson and nickelbacks such as Ramonz Adams Jr.

Cummings is focusing on helping Williams “play small,” emphasizing the need to outmaneuver defenders and win contested catches.

The Spring Game will be a crucial opportunity for Williams to showcase his progress and solidify his claim to the role. This article is brought to you by Dan Raley, a sports writer with four decades of experience covering UW football and basketball for publications like the Seattle Post-Intelligencer and MSN.com.