Demond Williams Jr. Injury Update: Will Washington QB Play Against Rutgers on Friday Night?

Washington fans can breathe a sigh of relief. Sophomore quarterback Demond Williams Jr. is expected to play against Rutgers on Friday night despite a viral clip that sparked injury concerns during the Huskies’ recent win over Maryland. Head coach Jedd Fisch confirmed that the hand issue Williams was seen dealing with on the sideline was only a cramp, not a serious injury.

The moment came during Washington’s 24-20 victory over Maryland when television cameras showed Williams flexing and shaking his throwing hand while warming up on the sideline. Social media quickly lit up with speculation about a possible hand injury that could threaten his availability this week.

Jedd Fisch Confirms Williams Is Fine After Hand Scare

After the game, Fisch directly addressed the viral clip and reassured everyone about his quarterback’s status. “He had a cramp,” Fisch said when asked about the scene. “Nothing more than that.”

That update ends any doubt about Williams’ ability to play when the Huskies return home to face Rutgers in a key Big Ten matchup on Friday night. Kickoff is scheduled for 9:00 p.m. ET in Seattle.

Williams has been one of Washington’s offensive leaders this season. Against Maryland, he threw for 275 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception while adding 57 rushing yards. His playmaking ability through the air and on the ground has been critical to the Huskies’ 4-1 start.

Impact for Washington vs. Rutgers

Washington enters the Rutgers game looking to improve to 5-1 and 2-1 in Big Ten play. Rutgers comes off a bye week but has dropped two straight games — 38-28 to Iowa and 31-28 to Minnesota. The Scarlet Knights’ defense has struggled to contain dual-threat quarterbacks, making Williams’ return even more important.

Williams has put together an impressive sophomore campaign so far. Through five games, he has completed 73.3% of his passes for 1,226 yards, eight touchdowns, and just one interception. He’s also rushed for 246 yards and two scores, giving Washington a versatile attack.

The Huskies also lean heavily on running back Jonah Coleman, who has 474 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns. Together, Williams and Coleman form one of the most dangerous offensive duos in the Big Ten. According to ESPN’s Football Power Index, Washington has a 75.8% chance to win this matchup.

Bottom line: Demond Williams Jr. is healthy and expected to start against Rutgers on Friday night. The hand issue seen on TV was only a cramp, and Washington’s offense will have its star quarterback at full strength.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Why was Demond Williams Jr. flexing his hand on the sideline?

He was dealing with a simple cramp in his throwing hand, according to coach Jedd Fisch.

Q2: Is Demond Williams Jr. playing against Rutgers?

Yes. Fisch confirmed Williams is fine and will start Friday night.

Q3: How has Demond Williams Jr. performed this season?

He has 1,226 passing yards, eight touchdowns, one interception, and 246 rushing yards through five games.

Q4: What is Washington’s record entering the Rutgers game?

The Huskies are 4-1 overall and 1-1 in the Big Ten after beating Maryland 24-20.

Q5: Who else should Rutgers watch out for on Washington’s offense?

Running back Jonah Coleman, who already has 474 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns this season.