Grading Commanders' pick of Clemson WR Antonio Williams in NFL draft

The Washington Commanders needed a wide receiver. Their aggressive pursuit of Alec Pierce in free agency, followed by a pursuit of Romeo Doubs, proved Washington understood its need to improve the receiver position. On Friday, the Commanders selected Clemson wide receiver Antonio Williams with the No.

71 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Washington had been linked to the draft's top three receivers, Carnell Tate, Jordyn Tyson and Makai Lemon, passing on all but Tate, who went No. 4 overall to Tennessee.

However, the Commanders landed Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles, addressing a major defensive need, allowing them to focus on receiver with their next pick. It was a wise strategy considering the depth of the receiver class. In landing the 5-foot-11, 187-pound Williams, Washington has a player who can play in the slot or outside at the next level.

While many draft analysts were quick to point out that he'd be best in the slot in the NFL, GM Adam Peters made it clear that Williams is also capable of playing outside at a high level. How good was the Williams pick? Let's grade it: Grade: A Williams was ranked No.