James Williams Jr. is a true freshman offensive lineman at Purdue standing 6'3" and weighing 295 pounds. The Fort Wayne native from Lawrence Central High School earned three-star recruit status from the composite recruiting rankings and was ranked the No. 3 offensive lineman in Indiana by Rivals. national outlets listed him as the No. 78 interior offensive line prospect nationally. During his senior season, Williams received IndyStar Super Team and Preseason Top 22 honors while allowing no sacks. He earned IFCA 6A All-State selection as a junior and was a two-time All-Marion County and All-MIC honoree. Williams maintained distinguished honor roll status every semester in high school.