Tigers WR Williams takes leave of absence
Memphis redshirt senior wide receiver Pop Williams is on a personal leave of absence, coach Ryan Silverfield said Tuesday.
Silverfield did not elaborate, citing Williams' privacy, but said the two have had communication for some time regarding his plans. He didn't say whether Williams planned to opt out for the remainder of the season but that Williams could return at some point.
"People are dealing with different things throughout their lives right now. It's a personal matter and if he wants to come out publicly and say something, I support him," Silverfield said.
Williams, who is still listed on the roster, played three games last season before suffering a season-ending knee injury. He's played 41 games over four seasons and had a breakout year in 2018.
He started 11 games and was an ALLAAC first-team selection at punt returner after leading the conference in punt return yardage.
He was also third on the team in receptions (33) and receiving yards (304) that season.
Williams, who is from Louisiana, is expected to contend for a starting role at wide receiver as well as factor in the return game.
"He's a young man that I've had a good relationship with now going on five years," Silverfield said. "He and I need to continue to have dialogue to figure out what he wants to do, but I'll never say never about him coming back.
"He's a young man that's able to make decisions on his own and whatever he decides finally to do, I support him 100%."