The Washington Commanders have held firm at the wide receiver position despite the countless rumors around whether Brandon Aiyuk or Stefon Diggs will join the ranks at some stage. That's a positive for those around, but it remains a fluid situation that could change quickly.
Things should become clearer during Washington's mandatory minicamp. New offensive coordinator David Blough won't be giving away his secrets, but who's rising or falling in the pecking order behind Terry McLaurin may be more apparent at this early stage.
And there will be nobody to keep an eye on closer than Antonio Williams.
Antonio Williams has the chance to rise above the rest at Commanders minicamp
The former Clemson star has made a tremendous start to life in Washington. Those in power were confident that he could excel in this environment, and the early signs are encouraging. Williams has drawn praise from coaches, teammates, and former players, with Santana Moss among those who have been impressed with the third-round pick so far.
Williams could be in line for a big role if the same trend continues.
He was tabbed as a slot specialist during his pre-draft assessments, but Williams does possess inside-out versatility. Blough will know how to scheme him open to exploit after the catch opportunities, which is among his specialties. And given the questions elsewhere on the receiver depth chart, he stands a better chance than most of making a difference.
The Commanders are giving everyone a chance to impress right now. But with the tempo and intensity expected to increase slightly at minicamp, the coaching staff will be expecting the cream to rise to the top.
McLaurin will be there. Williams might be, too.
Things didn't go as Williams hoped last season. He was projected as a first-round pick before his final college campaign with the Tigers, but he featured in just 10 games. The wideout still managed to accumulate 55 receptions for 604 receiving yards and four touchdowns, but his stock slid considerably before the Commanders came calling at No. 71 overall.
General manager Adam Peters saw a prospect with plenty to offer. Williams didn't become a bad player overnight. Injuries dented his momentum. Clemson's complete capitulation and quarterback Cade Klubnik's inconsistent ball distribution also played a part. But all good things come to those who wait.
Williams has a team that believes in him. He's found a team that should fit his skill set perfectly. He's found a perfect mentor in McLaurin and a coaching staff consisting of Wes Welker, who knows a thing or two about being productive from the slot. If that wasn't enough, the draft slide has only made the chip on his shoulder even bigger.
And minicamp could provide the launchpad for Williams to officially take off.
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