Big Win for the Boilermakers: 3-Star OL James Williams Jr. Commits to Purdue Over Spartans
Purdue has secured a significant victory on the recruiting trail, with three-star offensive lineman James Williams Jr. announcing his commitment to the Boilermakers. The Indianapolis native chose Purdue over several other suitors, notably Big Ten rival Michigan State, in a decision that strengthens the Boilermakers’ 2026 recruiting class in the trenches.
Williams, a 6-foot-3, 295-pound interior offensive lineman from Lawrence Central High School, had been a top target for both programs. He had even been slated to take official visits to both Purdue and Michigan State in the coming month, but ultimately opted to make his decision earlier, signaling a strong conviction in his choice.
His commitment marks the third offensive line pledge for Purdue in the 2026 class, joining fellow three-star prospects Brock Brownfield and Rico Schrieber. This influx of talent up front is a crucial step for head coach Ryan Walters and his staff as they continue to build the foundation for their program.
For Purdue, landing an in-state talent like Williams is particularly impactful. The Boilermakers have made a concerted effort to establish a strong presence in Indiana recruiting, and securing a commitment from a highly-rated prospect in the state underscores their success in that endeavor. Williams himself expressed comfort with the Boilermakers, stating “1000% committed. I’m already home!!!” on social media, reflecting a strong connection to the West Lafayette program.
Michigan State, on the other hand, will have to pivot after making a strong push for Williams. The Spartans had also offered the talented offensive lineman and were considered a significant contender for his services. While the recruiting world is often a game of wins and losses, losing out on an in-state prospect to a conference rival is always a tough pill to swallow.
Williams’ decision is a testament to the relationships built by the Purdue coaching staff and the vision they’ve laid out for their future offensive line. With his athleticism and size, Williams has the potential to become a cornerstone of the Boilermakers’ offensive attack for years to come. As the 2026 class continues to take shape, this commitment serves as a clear indicator that Purdue is making strides in its efforts to compete at the highest level of the Big Ten.
