Former Alabama running back signs free-agent deal with Indianapolis Colts
Went undrafted in 2026, but will battle for playing time behind All-Pro Jonathan Taylor
Olivia Bennett 
Former Alabama standout Roydell Williams is headed to the NFL. The running back has officially signed a free-agent deal with the Indianapolis Colts, as announced this past Friday.
A Path to the Pros
The 24-year-old Hueytown High School product spent the 2020-23 seasons with the Crimson Tide, where he compiled 1,165 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns across 45 appearances. During his final season in Tuscaloosa in 2023, he served as the team’s second-leading rusher with 560 yards and five scores. Williams finished his collegiate career at Florida State, where he added 99 yards and two touchdowns on 41 carries during the 2025 season before entering the draft process.
Competing in Indy
After going undrafted this past spring, Williams now enters a crowded Colts backfield. He will look to carve out a role behind All-Pro starter Jonathan Taylor, competing for reps against a group that includes DJ Giddens, Ulysses Bentley, and Seth McGowan. Williams joins a Colts training camp roster that features other former Alabama players, including second-year defensive lineman Tim Smith and rookie offensive lineman Geno VanderMark.
Williams and the Colts will get their first look at live action when the 2026 preseason kicks off against the New England Patriots on Thursday, Aug. 13.
