ORLANDO, Fla. — UCF senior receiver Marlon Williams is opting out of the remainder of the 2020 season to focus on the upcoming NFL draft.
The Alabama native is coming off a career best regular season, during which he led the American Athletic Conference in receiving yards (1,039), receptions (71) and receiving touchdowns (10).
"Having played my last college game, I would like to thank my teammates, coaches and the entire UCF family for an amazing four years," Williams wrote on social media Monday evening. "I want to give special thanks to Coach (Scott) Frost, Coach (Josh) Heupel and Coach (Darrell) Wyatt. I am a better football player and person because of their guidance and counsel.
"I also would like to thank my mother, Robin Winters, and my entire family for their unconditional love and support. Without them, there is no me! I hope to continue to make everyone proud as I pursue my lifelong dream of reaching the NFL. Thank you and God bless."
Williams started eight games this season but missed the season finale against USF Friday, with the school providing no explanation for his absence. He emerged as the go-to option in 2020 after the departure of Gabe Davis, with Williams targeted 105 times.
His 2,260 career receiving yards in 46 career appearances ranks 10th overall in school history and his 19 career touchdowns and 157 career receptions put him at No. 9 all-time in program history.
UCF now must wait until Dec. 20 before finding out where it will play this postseason. The Knights would prefer to stay in the state of Florida due to COVID-19 challenges. It would limit their opportunities to Gasparilla, Cure or Boca Raton bowls.
