The Washington Commanders believe they found real value with wide receiver Antonio Williams at No. 71 overall in the 2026 NFL Draft. And one doesn't have to look far around the media to find glowing references to his outlook in the pro ranks.
Williams was on track to be a first-round selection before injuries dented his momentum in 2025. He went from a highly touted prospect to a hidden gem, seemingly written off. When he somehow made it to the Commanders in the third round, general manager Adam Peters didn't hesitate.
Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney believes Williams has the tools needed to make his presence felt immediately. The player is confident, and so are the Commanders. This sentiment was echoed by one respected draft analyst, who tipped Williams for even more than that.
Matt Miller projects future WR1 role for Commanders rookie Antonio Williams
ESPN's Matt Miller lauded the Commanders' decision to draft Williams. He even thought the gifted pass-catcher had the chance to be a future No. 1 option with a little extra polish under Washington's exceptional coaching staff.
"It wouldn't have been a surprise to see Washington draft a wide receiver in Round 1 -- they might have if [Carnell] Tate were available. With no selection in Round 2, drafting a wideout in Round 3 became a must given Terry McLaurin's age (31) and the lack of obvious options behind him.
"[Antonio] Williams is a silky-smooth route runner who can line up on the outside or in the slot. The Commanders might have found a future WR1 in Round 3."
This would be the best-case scenario, especially given the speculation about Terry McLaurin's future beyond the 2026 campaign.
McLaurin remains the WR1 and the focal point of Washington's passing attack. There is nobody better in the room, and it's not even close. However, there were murmurings earlier this offseason about a potential departure in 2027 as his salary-cap number soars.
That's to be determined. But Williams won't be worried about that.
He'll be focused on making a smooth transition, developing chemistry with quarterback Jayden Daniels, and quickly establishing himself in an important role. And if these objectives are achieved, attention will then turn to silencing the doubters who caused his draft slide.
The Commanders probably need more in their receiver room. Unless someone breaks out, new offensive coordinator David Blough could have a problem. Williams is the likeliest candidate, and even though he went lower than expected, this might just be the perfect landing spot.
The excitement around Williams is hard to ignore. Now is the time to repay Washington's faith.
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