As a freshman in 2020, McWilliams appearing in four games and took a redshirt.[4] In 2021, he totaled 24 tackles with three being for a loss, four pass deflections, and a fumble recovery.[5] In 2022, McWilliams notched 19 tackles, ten pass deflections, and an interception, which he returned for a touchdown.[6] In 2023, he started all 12 games for UAB, where he recorded 52 tackles with two being for a loss, nine pass deflections, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery.[7] After the season, McWilliams entered his name into the NCAA transfer portal.[8]
UCF
McWilliams transferred to play for the UCF Knights.[9] In his lone season with the Knights in 2024, he tallied 32 tackles with six and a half being for a loss, a sack, two pass deflections, and an interception.[10] After the season, McWilliams declared for the 2025 NFL draft.[10] He accepted an invite to participate in the 2025 Reece's Senior Bowl.[11]
McWilliams played with his older brother, Fish McWilliams a defensive lineman who was a team captain for UAB. His cousin, Rocel played also played as a defensive lineman at South Alabama.[15]