Williams is a 2001 graduate of West Jordan High School in Salt Lake City, UT, where he was named to the All-State Team in 2001 and was a member of the 2001 Utah State American Legion Champions. Williams graduated from Briar Cliff University in 2005 where he was named GPAC All Conference in 2005 and was a member of the 2005 NAIA World Series Briar Cliff team. Williams amateur career began with the Sioux City Saints in 2004, but in 2005, Williams joines the Red Sox for his first season.