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Former Ole Miss safety Wydett Williams Jr. signs with Arizona as UDFA

Former Ole Miss safety Wydett Williams Jr. signs with Arizona as UDFA

OXFORD, Miss. — Another member of last season’s Ole Miss team is getting his opportunity at the next level. Former Rebel safety Wydett Williams Jr. has signed with the Arizona Cardinals as an undrafted free agent, earning his shot in the NFL after playing a key role in Ole Miss’ defensive unit during one of the most successful stretches in program history.

Williams, who made his way to Oxford after previous stops at Delta State and Louisiana-Monroe, quickly carved out a role in the Rebels’ secondary with his physical style of play and willingness to do the dirty work. Whether lining up in coverage or stepping up in run support, he brought a toughness and edge that fit seamlessly into Ole Miss’ defensive identity.

During his time with the Rebels, Williams contributed across the board, finishing his Ole Miss career with 73 total tackles (42 of which were solo), one fumble recovery, 10 pass breakups, and three interceptions. His versatility allowed the coaching staff to move him around the field, using him in multiple roles depending on the matchup.

Williams’ journey to this moment has been anything but conventional.

After beginning his collegiate career at Delta State, where he developed into a standout defensive back, he transitioned to the Division I level at Louisiana-Monroe before ultimately landing at Ole Miss. That path helped shape him into a seasoned, experienced player — one who understood how to adapt, compete, and make the most of every opportunity.

By the time he arrived in Oxford, Williams brought not only experience but also a mindset that resonated within the locker room. He became part of a defense that prided itself on effort, physicality, and accountability, contributing to a unit that helped power Ole Miss through a historic College Football Playoff run.

Now, he’ll look to carry that same mentality into the NFL.

Signing as an undrafted free agent presents a unique challenge, but it’s also an opportunity — one that Williams has earned through persistence and production. With the Cardinals, he’ll have the chance to compete for a roster spot and showcase the same toughness and versatility that defined his college career.

For Williams, it’s the next chapter in a journey built on resilience and hard work.

And for Ole Miss, it’s yet another Rebel taking the path from Oxford to the NFL — proving once again that no matter where the journey begins, there’s always a way forward for those willing to fight for it.

Evelyn Van Pelt

Evelyn has covered sports for over two decades, beginning her journalism career as a sports writer for a newspaper in Austin, Texas. She attended Texas A&M and majored in English. Evelyn's love for Ole Miss began when her daughter Katie attended the university on a volleyball scholarship. Evelyn created the Rebel Walk in 2013 and has served as publisher and managing editor since its inception. Email Evie at: Evie@TheRebelWalk.com

About The Author

Evelyn Van Pelt

Evelyn has covered sports for over two decades, beginning her journalism career as a sports writer for a newspaper in Austin, Texas. She attended Texas A&M and majored in English. Evelyn's love for Ole Miss began when her daughter Katie attended the university on a volleyball scholarship. Evelyn created the Rebel Walk in 2013 and has served as publisher and managing editor since its inception. Email Evie at: Evie@TheRebelWalk.com

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