Antonio Williams made an early impression at Washington Commanders rookie minicamp, and that quickly became a talking point around the team. Head coach Dan Quinn said the former Clemson wide receiver stood out because of his feel, his route-running, and his natural awareness as a receiver.
Quinn discussed Williams on The Sports Junkies Podcast and described the rookie as someone who already looks comfortable in the finer details of the position. “He knows when to stop, he knows how to adjust,” Quinn said, adding that Williams has “great hands” and “great movements to go.”
Strong first steps in Washington
Williams arrived in Washington after being selected in the third round of the 2026 NFL Draft with the No. 71 overall pick. The Commanders are expected to give him a chance to compete for immediate snaps, especially in the slot, where his skill set could help create quick separation and reliable targets for quarterback Jayden Daniels.
Quinn pointed to more than just athletic traits when explaining why Williams caught attention during scouting and rookie camp. He said the rookie can win as a route-runner with the ability to work option routes, in-breaking routes, and out-breaking routes.
What stood out to the Commanders
The Commanders coach emphasized that Williams brings more than a standard size-speed profile. Quinn said the receiver has a “real natural feel” for the position, describing it as the kind of trait that is difficult to measure but easy to recognize once it shows up on the field.
That feel helped Williams open camp with momentum, and it fits what Clemson showed throughout his college career. He left the Tigers ranked fourth in program history in career receptions and tied Mike Williams for the fourth-most touchdown catches in school history.
Clemson production that translated to the next level
Across 43 games at Clemson, Williams totaled 2,336 receiving yards and 21 touchdowns, while earning two All-ACC selections. His final season added more evidence of his versatility, as he caught 55 passes for 604 yards and four touchdowns in 10 games.
Williams also contributed in other ways, rushing 13 times for 78 yards and a touchdown, throwing a 75-yard touchdown pass, and returning punts for 44 yards on four attempts. That all-around production helped him finish with third-team All-ACC honors and gave Washington a receiver who arrives with a broader offensive profile than a typical slot target.
The Commanders now turn toward their season opener against the Philadelphia Eagles on Sept. 13 at Lincoln Financial Field, with Williams entering the offseason as one of the rookies who already has the coaching staff’s attention.
Read more at: www.theclemsoninsider.com