The Washington Commanders believe they have found something in third-round wide receiver Antonio Williams. He's got a first-round skill set, but a down year by his usual standards in 2025 left him overlooked.
That's just how it goes sometimes. But everything worked out for Williams in the end.
It's hard to see how Williams could have landed in a better place. The Commanders are desperately short of dependable wideout options behind Terry McLaurin, so there is an opening for the rookie to start right away. This also looks like a tremendous scheme fit, with many predicting him to be the Amon-Ra St. Brown type within David Blough's creative concepts.
Dabo Swinney gave Commanders fans another reson to believe in Antonio Williams
Time will tell on that. But Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney doubled down on his complete faith in Williams to reach similar heights to other former Tigers wide receivers who have taken the league by storm.
Swinney spoke in-depth with John Keim of ESPN about the special qualities Williams brings, comparing him to other program legends. He even went as far as to say Washington's new pass-catcher is one of the best he's ever had the privilege of coaching at the college level.
"He's not as big as Mike Williams, but he can finish on the ball. Everything you loved about Hunter Renfrow, that short-area quickness...elite ball skills, he's got all of that. He's just a bit more physically advanced than Hunter.
"Everything you love about Sammy Watkins, the explosiveness, run after the catch -- Antonio can do all that. He's not Sammy, but he's got those qualities that all of the great ones that we've had. Similar qualities, but he's just his own guy. But he's as good as we've had when it comes to finishing on the ball, making plays, big plays in big moments."
High praise, indeed.
This isn't the first time Swinney has been bullish about Williams' outlook in Washington since he became the No. 71 overall selection. His ability to create separation, ability after the catch, and in-play speed are things the Commanders lack behind McLaurin. More importantly, he's coming into the franchise with a huge chip on his shoulder.
Waiting until the third round before hearing his name called stung. Williams could have been a top 15 pick with another strong campaign in 2025, but it wasn't to be. There is nothing he can do about that now; it's about moving forward positively and silencing the doubters who questioned his ability to transition into the professional ranks.
Swinney has worked with many great wide receivers throughout his eventful coaching career. He also doesn't bestow this sort of praise unless it's deserved. And his gushing appraisal of Williams has only excited Commanders fans further about what's to come.
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