100 Days of Summer: Get to Know No. 56 Larry Williams

At No. 56 on our countdown, let’s take a look at collegiate journeyman who made an immediate impact upon arrival at Oklahoma State.

How he got to OSU

Williams was tabbed as the No. 77 prospect in the 2013 class by 247 Sports. He was a beast at Laney High School (Wilmington, NC), playing on both sides of the line. His senior season, he tallied 56 total tackles, a sack and two fumble recoveries on the DL. But Williams’s true calling was a blocker.

The three-star prospect decided to stick close to home and redshirted his first year at Eastern Carolina University. After appearing in 13 games his next year, Williams was dismissed by ECU for “violating team rules”. His next stop was Hutchinson Community College where he earned NJCAA All-American first team honors. Former OL coach Greg Adkins came calling and Williams was headed to Stillwater.

What he’s done in Stillwater

Williams made an immediate impact on OSU’s offensive line. In Week 1, he and redshirt freshman Marcus Keyes took over the two starting guard spots. Behind Keyes and Williams, the Cowboys’ running game was finally rolling. But after five games, Williams suffered a knee injury during practice. He didn’t return to action until the Alamo Bowl.

Role in 2017

Williams is set to reclaim his starting job at right guard, especially since late-season starter, Michael Wilson, has exhausted his eligibility. Williams was healthy at the start of spring practice but sat out of the spring game probably just as a precaution and to get some younger guys reps.

Mason Rudolph talked about his right-side blocker in an article from The Oklahoman.

“Larry is a guy that went through some growing pains last year,” said Rudolph, “had an injury that kept him back from playing.

“I think he’s one of our most athletic, toughest linemen we have now. Really looking forward to getting him back. I know he’s hungry.”

This looks to be a big year for Oklahoma State’s offense and a healthy Williams will be a big part of that. With Cal grad transfer, Aaron Cochran as the only newcomer in the projected OL starting five, OSU has a mix of talent and continuity it hasn’t seen across the offensive line in years.

Noteworthy stats and highlights

Williams was named to the NJCAA All-American first team while at Hutchinson Community College. At Laney HS, Williams also lettered in wrestling and track.