Welcome to the 2023 FCS Jersey Countdown.
Leading up to Week 0 games on Aug. 26, HERO Sports will name the best returning FCS player by jersey number, 99-0. Because team rosters are updated at different times across the country and to keep things consistent, jersey numbers are based on last season’s rosters.
The 99-0 countdown central page can be found here.
Note: Jersey numbers are based on 2022 rosters
54: Jaison Williams, OL (Jr.) — Youngstown State
Williams has been a versatile standout on YSU’s offensive line.
He started seven games in the 2021 spring season at left guard, left tackle, and right tackle. In the 2021 fall, he started 10 games, splitting them between right guard and right tackle. Last year, the big man held down the right tackle spot with 10 starts.
The 6-foot-4, 298-pounder has earned back-to-back Honorable Mention All-MVFC honors, plus 2022 HERO Sports Sophomore All-American accolades.
Last year, his overall PFF grade of 79.6 ranked No. 7 among FCS offensive tackles, including a 75.1 pass-blocking grade and a 78.6 run-blocking grade. In 295 pass-blocking reps recorded by PFF, he allowed one sack, four hits, and seven hurries for a 97.7 efficiency.
YSU rushed for 202.3 yards per game last season, ranking No. 17 in the FCS. Williams also assisted in YSU running back Jaleel McLaughlin setting the NCAA All-Division career rushing yards record with 8,166 yards.
Williams is No. 16 on HERO Sports’ best returning FCS offensive linemen ranking, and YSU ranks No. 23 in our FCS Preseason Top 25.
