On Tuesday, August 25, 2025 Rhode Island FC announced the transfer of forward JJ Williams to Scottish Premier club Heart of Midlothian FC for a club-record transfer fee, pending league and federation approval.

One of Rhode Island FC's first signings ahead of its historic inaugural season in 2024, Williams departs Rhode Island FC as the club's all-time leading scorer with 30 goals across three seasons.

In 77 appearances, Williams ranks first all-time with five braces and two hat tricks, and sits second all-time with 13 assists across all competitions, playing a pivotal role in leading RIFC to back-to-back Eastern Conference Final appearances in its first two seasons.

“This is a major milestone to become a player in the global football marketplace within three years,” said Rhode Island FC Head Coach and General Manager Khano Smith. “Preparing players to compete in Europe is proof of concept of the environment we have built at Rhode Island FC. JJ will forever be an important piece of our club's history, and we are extremely grateful for everything he has given us over the last three seasons. We wish him the best of luck as he takes this next step in his career."