Washington Commanders head coach Dan Quinn praised rookie wide receiver Antonio Williams after his standout performance during the team's rookie minicamp on May 8-9, 2026.
Quinn spoke highly of the third-round pick from Clemson on The Sports Junkies Podcast on 106.7 The Fan on Friday, May 22.
>>> Junior FC Advances to Liga BetPlay Final After Penalty Shootout
“I think one thing that you say, right off the bat, like man, this guy has feel,” Quinn said.
“He knows when to stop, he knows how to adjust – he just has awareness already as like a big-time receiver.”
Quinn emphasized Williams’ natural instincts and skill set. “He’s got great hands, great movements to go.
He’s off to a hell of a start.”
The coach noted that Williams has stood out among the team’s 15 rookies. “He has definitely been one that has absolutely jumped out.
He’s got real skill about him. So, yeah, we’re really pumped about Antonio.”
>>> Russell Wins Heated Canadian GP Sprint Amid Antonelli Clashes
Quinn also highlighted Williams’ route-running ability.
“When everybody sees him as the route-runner, you’re going to see him absolutely be able to break people off his option routes, in-breaking routes, out-breaking routes.”
“He can stop, he can change directions, explosive. Those are a few of the things that jump out to us,” Quinn added.
Williams finished his Clemson career with 2,336 receiving yards and 21 touchdowns, ranking fourth in school history in catches.
In the 2025 season, he recorded 55 receptions for 604 yards and four touchdowns in 10 games.
The Commanders selected Williams with the No. 71 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft to bolster their receiving corps.
>>> Brian White Leads Vancouver Whitecaps to 4-2 Win Over San Diego FC
The team is scheduled to open the 2026 regular season against the Philadelphia Eagles on September 13 at Lincoln Financial Field.
