The Missouri Tigers have strengthened their offensive line by signing West Virginia transfer Johnny Williams IV, marking their 13th addition of the winter transfer portal window and the third offensive lineman.
Williams, a 6-foot-7, 315-pound tackle from Macon, Georgia, started two games at left tackle for the Mountaineers in 2024, including the team’s bowl game against Memphis on December 17. He entered the transfer portal shortly after and has now committed to Mizzou. With 17 games of collegiate experience and a redshirt year preserved, Williams has three years of eligibility remaining, offering the Tigers much-needed depth and experience at the position.
On December 21, Williams teased his commitment by posting a photo from his visit to Missouri on his X account. Just a week later, he made it official. Williams follows Michigan interior lineman Dominick Guidice and Wake Forest offensive tackle Keagan Trost as the third offensive lineman to join Missouri during this portal window.
Additionally, he is the second West Virginia player to transfer to Missouri this winter, joining linebacker Josiah Trotter. Like Trotter, Williams fills a significant positional need for the Tigers. With both starting tackles, Armand Membou and Marcus Bryant, departing, and several other linemen running out of eligibility, Missouri’s offensive line was in urgent need of reinforcements.
Membou declared for the 2025 NFL Draft, forgoing his final season, while Bryant will complete his eligibility after the Music City Bowl against Iowa. Right guard Cam’Ron Johnson and backups Mitchell Walters and Drake Heismeyer will also exit the program.
Williams is expected to compete for one of the starting offensive tackle positions in 2025, providing immediate help to a Tigers line that will undergo a significant overhaul. His size, experience, and potential make him a valuable addition as Missouri looks to maintain its offensive momentum.
Missouri’s active use of the transfer portal reflects the program’s focus on shoring up critical positions ahead of the 2025 season. The addition of Williams highlights the Tigers’ commitment to building a competitive offensive line capable of supporting their high-powered offense. Fans will be eager to see how this new-look line performs in the upcoming season.