Southern Illinois wide receiver Fabian McCray has a years-long connection with Salukis quarterback D.J. Williams, dating back to high school. This fall will be the first time they play on the same college team. (Photo by SIUSalukis.com)
By Barry Bottino
When Fabian McCray catches his first pass of the season from his new quarterback, it will be just like old times.
McCray, a transfer wide receiver in his first season at Southern Illinois, and D.J. Williams have connected plenty of times.
“I first met D.J. in high school,” said McCray, whose college career began at FBS Northern Illinois and included two years at Jackson State. “We both played for the same 7-on-7 team. Our relationship kind of grew from there.”
Williams, whose career began at Murray State, also played with McCray’s cousin, Deshun Britten, for the Racers.
During the off-season early in their college careers, McCray and Williams would connect for “throwing sessions.”
The addition of McCray gives Williams – back for his second year at SIU after being limited to three games by injury last season – a big weapon in the pass game.
McCray played in 32 games at NIU from 2019 to 2022 before transferring to FCS Jackson State, where he was the team’s leading receiver, catching 41 passes for 584 passes and four touchdowns in 2023.
Before last season, McCray was named to the preseason HBCU+ Player of the Year Watch List. However, he played only three games because of injury.
Now healthy and reconnected with a familiar quarterback, McCray said he’s excited “to come in and be effective in the offense right away.”
During fall camp, SIU’s players and coaches have taken notice.
“He’s a guy who’s had a great camp,” SIU safety Jagger Williams said. “He’s made plays every day. He’s a great player, and I love competing against him.”
McCray’s confidence has also rubbed off on others — and put defenders on notice.
“He brings a little extra juice to that wide receiver room,” SIU defensive coordinator Lee Pronschinske said. “He’s going to let you know when he makes a big play.”
McCray averaged 14.2 yards a catch two years ago and enjoys the opportunity to change games.
“I’m a pretty good route runner,” he said. “I know how to get open, and I can make the big play.
“I’m confident that this offense can go far. We’re still putting some pieces together, but I feel pretty confident.”
Barry Bottino is a co-founder of Prairie State Pigskin and a 19-year veteran of three Illinois newspapers. He has covered college athletics since 1995.
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