Clemson signed four passcatchers in its 2022 recruiting class, and one has drawn heavy amounts of praise as the Tigers’ next up-and-coming slot receiver.
Despite only being with the team for a few weeks, Antonio Williams has quickly emerged as a camp favorite for offensive coordinator Brandon Streeter.
Speaking to the media on Monday, Streeter elaborated on Williams’ potential and the splash he has made in fall camp.
“I’m pleased with a lot of our rookies that have come in, but if I had to pick one guy that just got here in the summer, Antonio Williams is the first guy that comes to mind,” Streeter said. “His knowledge has been the most surprising to me. Coming into the summer, right before preseason camp, he has very few mental mistakes. On top of that, his athleticism is awesome. He’s fearless about going and getting the ball, and his hands have been incredible.”
Streeter added that he sees similarities between Williams and two of Clemson’s all-time slot receivers, Hunter Renfrow and Amari Rodgers.
At 6-foot and 180 pounds, Williams isn’t the tallest or most physically imposing pass-catcher Clemson has on its roster, but his athleticism is an attribute that coaches have been thrilled to see on the practice field.
“He’s got game speed that’s really, really good. He can help us a lot this year,” Streeter added.
Coming out of Dutch Fork High School (Irmo, S.C.), Williams was the No. 9 wide receiver in the class of 2022, according to 247Sports Composite rankings. In his high school career, he was credited with 137 receptions for 2,458 yards and 23 touchdowns.
Alongside Streeter, head coach Dabo Swinney has been impressed with Williams’ intelligence thus far.
“He’s a very smooth, very knowledgeable young player,” Swinney said last week. “He’s got a lot of good experience, and he’s played ball at a high level in this state. He’s had a lot of success.”
As Clemson’s wide receiver room looks to stay healthy and build upon last year’s offense, Williams has been one of the bright spots for Streeter.
“Just fortunate to get him and have him as a part of our team,” Streeter said. “He just rolls his sleeves up and goes to work every day.”