2026 NFL Draft: Experts grade Commanders' pick of WR Antonio Williams

TL;DR

The Washington Commanders selected wide receiver Antonio Williams with the No. 71 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft to support quarterback Jayden Daniels. Experts graded the pick an A, highlighting Williams' versatility as both a slot and outside receiver.

Key points

Washington Commanders selected Antonio Williams with No. 71 pick
Williams is a wide receiver from Clemson
Experts graded the pick an A
He can play both slot and outside receiver
The pick supports quarterback Jayden Daniels

Washington Commanders

The Washington Commanders found quarterback Jayden Daniels some offensive help on Friday, selecting Clemson wide receiver Antonio Williams with the No. 71 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. After using its first-round pick on Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles, Washington needed to take advantage of the deep wide receiver class to land a player who could help in 2026.

Williams can be that guy. He projects as a slot receiver for the Commanders, but general manager Adam Peters believes he's more than that. Washington believes Williams can help outside or in the slot. He did both at Clemson.

We loved the Commanders' choice of Williams and graded it an A.

What did others think? Let's find out.

Sports Illustrated: B+

Williams is a bit undersized at 187 pounds but ran a 4.41 40-yard dash. At Clemson, Williams was both a returner and a receiver. In 2024, he earned first-team All-ACC honors with 75 receptions for 904 yards and 11 touchdowns. Last year, he played only 10 games due to various injuries, totaling 55 catches for 604 yards. He was also limited to five games as a sophomore. If he can stay healthy, he’s a talent with upside.

How he fits with the Commanders: Washington desperately needed someone to play opposite Terry McLaurin. Before selecting Williams, the Commanders were looking at and as the other primary wideouts. Williams gives new offensive coordinator another high-level option.