Mizzou Football: Kristian Williams named as 2024 Wuerffel Trophy Nominee

Each year, the Wuerffel Trophy is awarded to the college football player "who best combines exemplary community service with athletic and academic achievement." This national honor is one of the biggest accomplsihments across the sport. It shows not just great play on the field, but more importantly outstanding work in the community.

In 2024, there were a record setting 111 nominees across the country. Among those nominated was University of Missouri graduate student, Kristian Williams. The native of Memphis, Tennessee will be entering his sixth year of college football this fall.

The Wuerffel Trophy is named after Heisman Trophy winner and College Football Hall of Famer, Danny Wuerffel.

""It’s inspiring. It’s all about the nominees, the great work they are doing for others each and every day, using their platform to positively impact the world.”"

- Danny Wuerffel

In his playing career, Williams has had to overcome a ton of adversity. Coming out of high school, he was a 4-star prospect, and wound up committing to the University of Oregon. In his freshman year there, Williams played just two games and was granted a redshirt. In a shortened 2020 season, he didn't see much playing time. He stuck around for one more season before transferring to Mizzou ahead of the 2022 campaign.

In his first two seasons with Missouri, Williams has been a great addition, starting 11 games in both seasons. He has accumulated over 25 tackles in each season, adding eight sacks in that time as well.

Williams has been awesome both on and off the field, and he's definitely deserving of a nomination for the Wuerffel Trophy.