USC countdown to kickoff: Recalling Trojans WR Mike Williams
Today, we look at a star receiver from the early 2000s
The countdown to USC's 2026 football season kickoff continues with a look back at former Trojans wide receiver Mike Williams. The highly accomplished player donned the number 84 jersey during his two-year tenure at USC from 2002 to 2003. In that brief time, Williams left an indelible mark on the team, catching 176 passes for 2,579 yards and scoring 30 touchdowns.
His exceptional performance earned him a spot as a unanimous All-American in 2003 and was instrumental in leading USC to its 10th national championship that same year.
Unsurprisingly, such a standout performance did not go unnoticed by NFL teams. Williams had his sights set on the 2004 NFL Draft, teaming up with Ohio State running back Maurice Clarett to challenge the league's eligibility rules. However, the court ruled against them, leaving Williams ineligible to enter the draft. Determined to return to USC, Williams attempted to do so in 2004 but was ultimately ruled ineligible by the NCAA for renouncing his collegiate eligibility by attempting to declare for the draft.
As a result, he missed the entire 2004 season while the Trojans went on to win another national title without him.
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