Owatonna’s Williamson Upgraded to Four-Star Recruit

Owatonna's Jason Williamson just got better without ever gaining a yard for the Gophers. Williamson, now a University of Minnesota student-athlete was upgraded to a four-star recruit by 247sports.com. He recently enrolled at the Twin Cities campus so he would be eligible for spring football.

247sports improved Williamson's ranking based on several notes, saying, "He posted monster number in his team's playoff run. While high school stats only count into this rankings process a small amount, between those measurable qualities and his production, it was tough to keep him out of four-star range."

Williamson gained over 3,000 yards during his senior season with the Huskies. He rushed for 477 yards against Northfield in the sections, had eight touchdowns in the section final over Mayo and five touchdowns against Elk River in the state semifinals. In the Prep Bowl, he scored a spinning, tackle-breaking touchdown that proved the difference in Owatonna beating St. Thomas Academy for their second straight state title.

247sports.com added, "His ability to project to different positions makes him unique. At first, we saw him as an athlete who could play safety or maybe outside linebacker. The more we have seen him play running back, the more we see that as a real option in college as well."

Both Williamson and OHS coach Jeff Williams have said that the Gophers will give him a chance at running back to begin his college career.

The online service also noted Williamson's success on the track team. He was part of the Huskies' 4x200 relay team at the 2018 state meet.

Williamson gained over 7,000 yards rushing during his prep career, the second most in state history. His 110 career touchdowns, which include some on kick returns and on defense, is tops in state history. He was named Mr. Football, the AP Player of the Year and the USA Today Minnesota Offensive Player of the Year in addition to the Gatorade award.