Signed: Caleb Williams Joins HBCU National Champion South Carolina State
Congratulations to AEA client Caleb Williams on the big move. Four weeks after entering the transfer portal, the Furman safety and team captain has signed with South Carolina State, the reigning HBCU national champions. The Bulldogs announced the signing of the "ball hawk" defensive back from Furman, and Williams is listed on the 2026 roster as a graduate student at safety, wearing No. 8.[1][2]
Why South Carolina State
South Carolina State got a good one. Williams started at strong safety in the Southern Conference, posted 53 tackles, 4.5 tackles for loss, five pass breakups, two interceptions, and a forced fumble in 2024, and brings experience at both safety spots and nickel.[3] For a championship program in the MEAC, that is a plug-and-play veteran in the secondary.
The process
Williams entered the portal on Jan. 2, 2026. AEA organized his film and profile, managed program interest, and worked through the terms of the move so that the decision was his, made with full information and on a timeline that fit the spring semester.
From AEA
The next chapter will be fun to watch. Caleb, congratulations from everyone at AEA. We are with you on the field and off it, for the long run.
Athletes weighing the portal: Start the conversation.
Sources
1. South Carolina State Football on X, signing announcement, 2026. x.com/SCState_Fb
2. South Carolina State Athletics, Caleb Williams player page. scsuathletics.com
3. Furman Athletics, Caleb Williams player bio. furmanpaladins.com
4. AEA on Instagram (@empowerathletes), Jan. 29, 2026.
FAQ
Where did Caleb Williams transfer?
Caleb Williams signed with South Carolina State on Jan. 29, 2026, after four seasons at Furman. He is listed as a graduate student safety on the 2026 roster.
Who represents Caleb Williams?
Caleb Williams is represented by Athlete Empowerment Agency (AEA), led by Steven Fantetti, Esq., a corporate attorney and NFLPA Certified Contract Advisor.
How long does the transfer portal process take?
It varies. Williams went from entering the portal to signing in four weeks. AEA manages the film, the program conversations, compliance, and the terms so the athlete can decide on his own timeline.
