Antonio Williams was drafted by the Washington Commanders in the third round of the 2026 NFL Draft, making him the first Clemson offensive player selected. Despite an injury-shortened final season, he showcased his talent with 55 receptions for 604 yards and four touchdowns.
Key points
Antonio Williams drafted by Washington Commanders
Selected in the third round at No. 71 overall
Recorded 55 receptions for 604 yards and four touchdowns in final season
Fifth Clemson player selected in the draft
Injury limited him to nine games in his senior year
Mentioned in this story
Washington Commanders
Antonio WilliamsClemson
Antonio Williams became the first Clemsonfootball offensive playmaker selected in the 2026 NFL Draft on Friday, landing with Washington in the third round at No. 71 overall.
His final season didn’t fully reflect his ability after an early injury against LSU limited him to nine games, but he still managed 55 receptions for 604 yards and four touchdowns. The year before told a much clearer story. In 2024, Williams was one of Clemson’s most reliable targets, finishing with 75 catches, 904 yards, and 11 scores while consistently showing he could move the chains and stretch the field.
Williams comes off the board as part of a busy draft stretch for Clemson. He’s the fifth Tiger selected, joining a group that already included Blake Miller and Peter Woods on the first night, followed by T.J. Parker and Avieon Terrell on Day 2.
Even with a shortened senior year, Williams put enough on tape to draw interest early on Friday. Now he gets a fresh start in Washington, where his route running and sure hands could give him a real shot to carve out a role early.
