The dream for most football players is to play in the NFL eventually, and wide receiver Antonio Williams will officially realize that dream this coming Sunday when the Washington Commanders take on the Philadelphia Eagles.
Williams was a third-round draft pick out of Clemson. His 2024 campaign is probably the best indication of what he is capable of, after having over 900 receiving yards and leading the ACC in touchdowns that season with 11. Washington hopes to bring that kind of production to the Commanders this season, though he’ll first have to get over his first-game jitters.
“I feel like if you ain’t a little nervous, you don’t care. And that’s how I approach the game. So, yeah, when it comes out, that first play, I’ll probably have a little jitters.
But then once the snap goes, then it’s game time.”
Williams is not a stranger to a capacity stadium and electric game atmosphere. Clemson’s Death Valley is well-known in college for its game atmosphere and traditions that make it a difficult place to play, and the Tigers traveled to some hostile places during Williams’ time in college. However, it is different when you are playing in the NFL.
Also, Williams and the rest of the Commanders rookie class will not be able to experience a Washington Commanders home game until Week 3 against the Seattle Seahawks. This is the first time since 2012 that Washington has started their season with back-to-back road games.
This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: Commanders rookie WR Antonio Williams says he'll have jitters in opener
