Chris Williams is one of eight players from Texas in Nebraska's 2009 class and is one of the most decorated players signed by the Cornhuskers after starring for Abilene High and Coach Steve Warren. As a senior, Williams’ season was cut short by a knee injury, but he produced huge numbers in the first 10 games, helping the Eagles to a perfect 10-0 season before a first-round loss in the Class 5A playoffs. Williams totaled 77 tackles as a senior, including 12 tackles for loss and eight sacks. He also forced four fumbles, recovered three fumbles and had a pair of interceptions.

Williams' play netted him recognition as one of 58 players nationally to be named a Parade All-American. He was named the Defensive Player of the Year on the All-Big Country Super Team and was the District 3-5A Player of the Year. Williams posted similar numbers during his junior season for the Eagles. He posted 90 total tackles, including an amazing 32 tackles for loss and 13 sacks. His play helped Abilene to a 13-2 overall record and a trip to the Class 5A Division II state semifinals. Williams earned statewide recognition for his standout effort, being named the Class 5A Defensive Player of the Year by the Associated Press.

The 6-0, 220-pounder first produced big numbers for Abilene in 2006 when he was the Eagles' only sophomore starter. Williams tallied 142 tackles in 13 games and established himself as a force in the middle of the Eagles’ defense. Williams was regarded as one of the top dozen inside linebackers in the country by Rivals.com, who also ranked him as one of the top 35 prospects in Texas. Scout.com listed Williams as one of the nation's top 25 linebackers and SuperPrep ranked him among the top 25 players in the state of Texas. He was also listed as the 23rd-best prospect on the Austin American-Statesman's Fab 55 list.

Williams chose Nebraska over offers from Oklahoma, LSU, Tennessee, Texas A&M and Oregon among others. He is the son of Christopher Williams and Juanita Almagur and was born on Oct. 25, 1990.