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While the football world has been obsessed with linking the Washington Commanders with wide receivers Brandon Aiyuk and Stefon Diggs, what if they like the group they already have?
This offseason, the Commanders took swings at free agents Alec Pierce and Romeo Doubs. They signed neither; instead, they re-signed former Tennessee first-round pick Treylon Burks, signed veteran Van Jefferson, brought back Dyami Brown after a year in Jacksonville, and spent a third-round pick on Antonio Williams.
While the Commanders certainly didn't have the big-name acquisition that fans desired, the offseason moves represent a significant upgrade from last season.
Washington likes Burks. He impressed in limited snaps last season. And while he may never live up to his former first-round status, that doesn't mean he can't be a solid NFL receiver. It's all about health. The Commanders are also excited about Brown. He played a pivotal role for Washington down the stretch in 2024 before departing in free agency. There is hope that returning to Washington and reuniting with quarterback Jayden Daniels will get the most out of Brown.
Then, there are former draft picks Luke McCaffrey and Jaylin Lane. McCaffrey showed improvement last season before breaking his collarbone. Lane excelled as a punt returner.
Washington also signed tight end Chig Okonkwo in free agency, and he's expected to be a significant part of the offense.
But it's Williams that has the Commanders the most excited. The rookie from Clemson can play inside or outside, but offensive coordinator David Blough could envision Williams playing in the slot, much like Amon-Ra St. Brown in Detroit. After all, Washington will run a similar offense. Now, that's not to compare Williams to St. Brown, but he could be in store for the second-most targets on the team behind Terry McLaurin.
There were several receivers taken ahead of Williams in the 2026 NFL Draft. But some analysts believe he could be an Offensive Rookie of the Year contender. CBS Sports recently ranked 10 rookie receivers by expected impact. Williams ranked No. 7. Of the six players picked before him, most went in the first round, and all were picked inside the top 40.
Williams was a steal for Washington. His capabilities surpass where he was taken in the draft. Aside from the potential addition of Brandon Aiyuk, which now looks less likely given recent social media posts, the Commanders' depth chart is wide open for Williams to make an impact alongside Terry McLaurin. Dyami Brown, Luke McCaffrey, Jaylin Lane and Treylon Burks are others competing for a similar target share.
Williams is predominantly a slot receiver who can create yardage in the short to intermediate portions of the field. CBS Sports' fantasy football experts project 48 receptions for 678 yards and four touchdowns.
Williams was a steal. We've been hearing a lot of that. He wasn't a pick for the future for Washington. GM Adam Peters believes he can hit the ground running. If things go as the Commanders hope, this offense could be much better than anyone believes in 2026. First, a healthy Jayden Daniels and McLaurin, the arrival of Okonkwo and Williams, combined with the improvements of those already on the roster, could mean a big year for Washington.
And there's still time to sign someone like Diggs, but don't be surprised if the Commanders stand pat.
This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: Ranking Commanders' Antonio Williams among 2026 rookie WRs
