The Washington Commanders saw enough in Antonio Williams to end his slide at No. 71 overall in the 2026 NFL Draft. This is an intriguing weapon to add for quarterback Jayden Daniels, and most experts around the media believe that general manager Adam Peters could have a steal on his hands.
They weren't alone. Williams also got a glowing recommendation from one perennial Pro Bowl wide receiver, who claimed the Commanders' new pass-catcher could be destined for superstardom.
Williams was projected as a first-round pick before his final season at Clemson. The wideout dealt with some nagging injuries that held him back, though he was productive in difficult circumstances. The Tigers went from the No. 1 preseason seed to missing the college football playoffs entirely. However, the Commanders are giving him the benefit of the doubt.
DeAndre Hopkins expects big things from Antonio Williams with the Commanders
Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney thought Williams could be an immediate impact player for the club. And when DeAndre Hopkins was asked on social media about which receiver from this draft class may have star potential, he picked Washington's new dynamic playmaker.
While Hopkins could be accused of being a homer as a Clemson alum, it's still high praise all the same. More importantly, the Commanders have conviction in his chances at the next level, and there is an opening to help right away.
Much has been made about the lack of legitimate production outside of Terry McLaurin in the receiver room. Peters and head coach Dan Quinn are banking on the likes of Treylon Burks, Jaylin Lane, and Luke McCaffrey to make the strides needed. There is the lingering speculation about Brandon Aiyuk, but there is just no telling how much he will be able to feature after missing so much football over the last 18 months.
Either way, Williams should help. He's a slick route-runner who can create separation effortlessly. His ball skills are first-class, and the wideout can also gain yards after the catch. He is not the most physically imposing, but he can make things happen.
Hopkins gave him a positive reference. He wasn't alone. Peters does his due diligence on all prospects, gaining information from every angle before making an informed decision. They also thought he would go much higher, so getting him in the third round was an absolute bargain.
Williams still has to go and prove it, of course. But he's coming into the Commanders with a chip on his shoulder, and the relentless work ethic should make for a smooth transition if he can get a better run of luck on the health front.
Hopefully, for the Commanders' sake, both scenarios come to fruition. If they do, Hopkins believes big things are ahead for Williams in Washington.
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