Welcome to Arizona! Arizona State Sun Devils Secure Four Star Running Back Prospect hours after Jalen Williams Commitment.

Arizona State Strengthens 2026 Class with Jalen Williams, Eyes Top RB Kenny Darby

Arizona State’s 2026 recruiting class just got a significant boost with the commitment of four-star cornerback Jalen Williams out of Marietta, Georgia. Standing at 6-foot and weighing 160 pounds, Williams is considered one of the more promising defensive backs in the Southeast. His decision marks the Sun Devils’ seventh overall commitment for the 2026 cycle and their first at the cornerback position.

Williams admitted he became more interested in ASU during the program’s standout performance last season, which included a Big 12 Championship win and an appearance in the Peach Bowl. “I was like, Oh, wow. They actually play football, like they’re good,” he told Sundevil Source.

His recruitment took a major turn after a visit in January where he connected with ASU’s Bryan Carrington. The relationship between Carrington, Williams, and his father played a key role in solidifying his pledge. “I feel like we have a good relationship. Off of being a young coach, I feel like he relates to me more,” Williams explained.

He was also impressed by head coach Kenny Dillingham’s leadership and reputation. “A lot of people say [Coach Dillingham] is a good person, but I wanted to see it for myself—and he lived up to his reputation.”

On the field, Williams put up solid numbers in his junior year, notching 39 tackles and two interceptions in 12 games, according to MaxPreps. He describes himself as a cerebral and gritty player. “I feel I have a great football IQ and I’m also a little scrappy, so I got a good mix of both.”

The Sun Devils aren’t done building yet. The program is reportedly closing in on another high-profile target: four-star running back Kenny Darby. Sources indicate ASU is in a strong position to land the explosive back, which would further elevate an already impressive 2026 recruiting class.

In related news, Arizona State offensive coordinator Marcus Arroyo was recently recognized as one of the top assistant coaches in college football—a testament to the rising stock of the Sun Devils program under Coach Dillingham’s leadership.