Antonio Williams: Todd McShay's No. 1 WR in 2026 NFL Draft

Antonio Williams: A Rising Star in the 2026 NFL Draft

Antonio Williams, a standout receiver for Clemson, has been highlighted as the top receiver in the 2026 NFL Draft by renowned analyst Todd McShay. This recognition comes after an impressive third season with the Tigers, where Williams showcased his potential to take another significant step forward this year.

McShay, known for his deep insights into college football, shared his thoughts on Williams during an appearance on The McShay Show. He emphasized the receiver’s exceptional route-running skills, which he believes are among the best in the nation. According to McShay, Williams received the highest grade for his route-running ability, which is complemented by his speed and overall playmaking skills.

“I want to see if Antonio Williams takes his game to another level this year,” McShay said. “He’s an average-sized playmaker. …I would give him a one as a route runner. Our position-specific grades, a one is excellent, two is above average, three is average, four is below average and five is marginal. So I give him a one as a route runner.”

McShay noted that Williams performed exceptionally well across all levels of the game. His performance was reflected in the stats, with Williams ranking in the 95th percentile in separation. McShay praised his crisp execution off the line of scrimmage, noting that he handles tempos and stems his routes beautifully. He also admired how Williams drops his weight, making him a dangerous threat on the field.

Last season, Williams set career highs with 75 catches for 904 yards and 11 touchdowns. If he can surpass the 1,000-yard mark this season, it could solidify his position as a first-round draft pick. However, despite his talent, there are areas where Williams needs to improve.

McShay pointed out that while Williams has shown consistent ability to track the ball and adjust to it, he didn’t give him a perfect grade on his ball skills due to some drops during the past season. However, he added that not all drops are created equal. Some of the drops were due to external factors such as off-target throws or moments of focus issues.

“Folks, this is why stats are super helpful and state can lead you somewhere, but stats also can lead you somewhere and you realize that’s not accurate,” McShay explained. “Whoever’s doing their job for PFF did their job. The drops existed. But not scouting evaluation drops, if you will. Not all drops are made equal. There’s focus drops, there’s balls that are off target in like, bang, bang moments. But for him, he had the eight drops, but I was impressed for the most part. I thought he showed consistent ability to track the ball, adjust to the ball, pluck the ball away from his frame. I thought he’s a hands-catcher, not a body-catcher.”

McShay identified two main reasons for not giving Williams a perfect score. First, there were some focus drops. Second, he noted that Williams doesn’t have a huge catch radius, which limits his ability to make plays on the outside. Despite these challenges, McShay believes Williams has the potential to be a valuable asset at the next level.

Williams’ size—5-11 and 190 pounds—gives him NFL-like separation skills, making him an intermediate possession weapon with some vertical ability. To reach his full potential, he needs to reduce the number of drops and improve his yards after the catch. McShay noted that while Williams is shifty and quick, he hasn’t yet demonstrated enough after-the-catch ability.

As the season progresses, it will become clearer whether McShay’s prediction holds true. With a competitive class of receivers that includes names like Germie Bernard and Jordan Tyson, Williams has a strong chance of being the top pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. His combination of skill, potential, and determination makes him a player to watch closely in the coming months.