Full Breakdown
Commanders Draft Clemson WR Antonio Williams
4/25/2026, 2:08:11 PM
Draft Background
Washington entered the 2026 NFL Draft seeking a No. 2 receiver for Terry McLaurin and Jayden Daniels. The receiving corps has lacked a player taller than 6-ft-2 since 2024, prompting size concerns. After trading its second-round pick for left tackle Laremy Tunsil, the Commanders used 71st pick on wideout Antonio Williams, adding him to a group that includes McLaurin.
Stats
Williams recorded 2,320 receiving yards and 21 touchdowns on 207 catches at Clemson, with a 904-yard, 11-TD 2024 season. In 2025 he logged 55 catches for 604 yards, four touchdowns. He ran a 4.41-second 40-yard dash (82nd percentile) and posted a vertical leap in the 92nd percentile.
Official Responses
Logan Paulsen called Williams “a perfect fit for what they are looking to do offensively,” noting his ability to line up in motion, run crossing routes and serve as third-down option. The team said Williams “can play both inside and outside,” aligning with a strategy to broaden the passing attack. Head coach David Blough said the slot receiver’s skill set should complement McLaurin and give Daniels a reliable target.
Opposition
A to Z Sports argued the pick fails to address Washington’s need for a larger receiver, stating the team “needs a big-body wideout instead of a quicker, smaller guy.” It cited Williams’ injury history—missed time in 2023 and 2025—and questioned whether selection would ease pressure on McLaurin. It gave the pick a “C” grade, limited upside.
Impact
If Williams adapts to the motion offense, he could add a slot option, improve third-down efficiency and draw defensive focus away from McLaurin. Size limits and injury history may restrict his role, prompting Commanders to seek receiving depth through free agency or drafts.
Next Steps
Williams will attend minicamp to assess his health and fit. He will compete for a roster spot in training camp and may contribute on special teams while vying for a slot-receiver role.
Gaps
Sources differ on Williams’ college totals: one source lists 2,320 yards, 21 touchdowns and 207 catches; another lists 1,508 yards, 15 touchdowns and 130 catches. The effect of his injury history on future durability remains unverified.
Quotes
- “Williams is a bona fide ball player with good size and an ability to make mischief when he totes the pigskin.” — Lance Zierlein, NFL.com
- “Antonio Williams is a highly productive football player who was once considered a first-round pick. He has the size and skill set to play inside or outside, and he’s crafty in his routes.” — Rob Gregson, A to Z Sports
- “He can play both inside and outside.” — Logan Paulsen, Commanders analyst
- “Williams will provide a legitimate pass-catching target for Jayden Daniels this fall.” — Washington Commanders draft announcement
