Iowa running back Leshon Williams announces intention to enter transfer portal

IOWA CITY — Iowa running back Leshon Williams plans to enter the transfer portal, he announced Monday on social media.

Williams was the Hawkeyes’ leading rusher in 2023, and his 821 rushing yards were sixth-best in the Big Ten. He was clearly behind Kaleb Johnson and others on the depth chart in 2024, though.

Johnson has 97 carries so far this season. Kamari Moulton took 32 carries, and Jaziun Patterson took 30 carries. Williams, on the other hand, had 11 carries for 21 yards in three games.

The 5-foot-10 running back missed Iowa’s Week 4 game against Minnesota with an injury and did not play last weekend against Ohio State despite being available. He also battled an injury during fall camp.

“I appreciate the love and support throughout my time in the black and gold,” Williams said in an Instagram post addressed to Hawkeye nation. “With the countless moments of excitement on the field, you’ve made every game unforgettable. To my teammates, I’m beyond greateful for the sacrifices you’ve made for me as well as the program.”

The Chicago native will conclude his time as a Hawkeye ranked 34th in program history with 1,323 career rushing yards. He was named the Iowa offense’s MVP in 2023. He had an 82-yard rushing touchdown against Wisconsin last year, which was the Hawkeyes’ longest rushing play in the Kirk Ferentz era.

Williams’ announcement came hours after wide receiver Kaleb Brown’s announcement that he will use his redshirt year and not play in any more 2024 games.

“We thank both players for their contributions to the program and wish them the best as they move forward,” Iowa Coach Kirk Ferentz said in a statement on Monday.

Williams already redshirted in 2020, so he cannot save a year of eligibility by making this decision at this point in the year. He will have one year of eligibility remaining.

“This was not an easy decision, but I believe it’s the best path forward for my personal as well as athletic growth,” Williams said in the Instagram post.

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