The Washington Commanders knew going into the 2026 NFL Draft that they were taking a wide receiver at some point. While there was a lot of smoke about going receiver at No. 7 overall, the depth of the wide receiver class allowed the Commanders to address the defense first and add a receiver with their second pick — No. 71 overall. Remember, Washington was without a second-round pick (and fourth) due to last year’s trade for left tackle Laremy Tunsil.
The board worked in the Commanders’ favor, as GM Adam Peters had several receivers to choose from. His pick: Clemson wideout Antonio Williams.
While Williams wasn’t as explosive an athlete as some of the other receivers on the board, he is an excellent route runner, a terrific after-the-catch player, and can play outside or in the slot. While many draft analysts believe he’ll be better in the slot in the NFL, Peters said the Commanders envisioned him playing outside.
In his post-draft column for ESPN, draft analyst Field Yates named his five favorite picks in each round. Williams was one of his picks for the third round.
Tough, reliable, good after the catch, selfless and with strong hands. Those are among the ways to describe Williams, who gives the Commanders a potential WR2 next to Terry McLaurin. The rookie will take on a slot role for the Commanders, whose depth was immensely tested in 2025 amid injuries. Williams was No. 64 in my final rankings.
In selecting Williams, the Commanders went with a productive college player who can contribute immediately. Don’t be surprised when Williams quickly becomes one of Jayden Daniels’ favorite targets.
This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: Washington Commanders: ESPN analyst a big fan of Antonio Williams