Antonio Williams waited longer than he expected before hearing his name called during the 2026 NFL Draft. However, the rookie wide receiver is already proving he belongs in the big time.
The Washington Commanders have concerns about their wideout room behind Terry McLaurin. He's the only one with legitimate production, and the rest are unknowns. Someone has to step up, or general manager Adam Peters will have no choice but to sign Brandon Aiyuk or another veteran.
That someone might be Williams.
The No. 71 pick drew widespread praise throughout Washington's early offseason workouts. His slick route-running, effortless ability to create separation, and assured hands already look capable of carving out a role within David Blough's offense. There is a big chip on his shoulder, which stands to benefit the Commanders greatly.
Antonio Williams is already starting to show he belongs with the Commanders
McLaurin sees something in Williams. The second-team All-Pro has taken the former Clemson playmaker under his wing, providing advice and counsel to ensure he is ready for the challenges that lie ahead. He's been a sponge, absorbing information to pursue improvements.
And it's had the desired effect.
Even if Aiyuk or Stefon Diggs join the franchise, that shouldn't diminish Williams' role in Year 1 of his professional career. Unless there is a drastic surge from someone else, he's likely to be the starting slot receiver. He's got inside-out versatility, but this is the best way for Blough to get the football into his hands quickly.
That's when the magic happens.
Things didn't go according to plan for Williams last season. He was projected by some pre-draft analysts to be a top 15 pick heading into the campaign. Injuries dented his momentum, and Clemson's slump from preseason No. 1 seed to missing the college football playoffs entirely didn't help, either.
Still, everything happens for a reason, and the wideout may have landed in the best possible fit.
The Commanders have an opening for Williams to gain his fair share of targets. He has an innovative, albeit inexperienced, play-caller leading the charge. Washington's culture suits his mentality, and he's got a fantastic mentor in McLaurin to smooth his transition.
It's paying off so far.
Williams looks the part, and he's only going to get better. The Commanders will ramp things up at training camp. It would also be wise to get him some preseason work. If these tests are passed, that'll be all Blough needs to see.
There's a chance Williams cannot reach expectations, but that looks unlikely. He's got everyone one looks for in a productive slot receiver. Blough will know how to maximize his skill set immediately, and quarterback Jayden Daniels will have no trouble trusting him in key moments if confidence increases.
Tempering expectations would be wise. But when it comes to Williams, that's becoming difficult.
Add us as a preferred source on Google