SMU running back Derrick McFall is gaining attention as he prepares for the 2025 college football season. After a notable redshirt freshman year in 2024, where he recorded 106 rushing yards and two touchdowns in five games, McFall was named to the 2025 Doak Walker Award Watch List. The Doak Walker Award, named after Heisman Trophy winner Doak Walker, is given annually to the nation’s top collegiate running backs who demonstrate both performance and leadership.
McFall is from Tyler, Texas, and has been described as a player with quick moves and strong instincts. Standing at 5 feet 11 inches and weighing 187 pounds, his athleticism has made him an asset to the SMU Mustangs since his days at Tyler High School, where he was recognized as a four-star recruit and earned first-team all-district honors.
McFall’s background is rooted in African-American heritage. Family has played a significant role in his life; his parents, Dianna and Terrence Williams, have influenced his values of discipline and unity. According to reports, “Derrick McFall proudly embraces his African-American heritage. Growing up in East Texas, his life was rich with cultural pride and strong community ties. However, family gatherings and Sunday sermons shaped his values early on. But his parents, Dianna and Terrence Williams, were a guiding force, instilling lessons of discipline and unity.”
The running back’s influence also extends off the field. His character and dedication have been noted by those around him. “While on the field, he’s explosive; off it, he lets his play speak volumes. Known for his quick moves and sharp instincts, Derrick plays with heart and a deep love for the game. His teammates respect not just his skills, but the quiet determination and humility he brings every day,” according to one account.
Although McFall keeps much about his personal beliefs private, stories point to faith playing an important part in shaping him growing up in a close-knit household. Reports state that “Derrick McFall’s path from Tyler to the SMU Mustangs is more than just football; it’s a story of family, faith, and character. Raised in a tight-knit household…his parents drilled into him values like humility and gratitude.” When McFall originally committed to UCLA on his mother’s birthday—giving her red roses—he demonstrated this sense of respect for family.
Ultimately choosing SMU over UCLA allowed him to remain closer to home—a decision that underscored the importance of staying true to his roots: “McFall’s decision to decommit from UCLA and stay closer to home at SMU wasn’t just about football; it was about staying true to his roots.”
As anticipation builds around McFall’s future in college football—and as he continues making an impact both athletically and personally—his story highlights themes of culture, upbringing, humility, faith, family support,and leadership.
