In the Washington Commanders’ first preseason game against the Miami Dolphins, rookie wide receiver Antonio Williams got his first NFL action. He caught one pass on three targets for 16 yards.
Preseason games can be underestimated for rookies. While it is important for rookies to get on the field, going through the process of preparing for the game, being in the locker room, and playing in front of an NFL crowd is also incredibly important.
“Felt good to get out there and get your feet wet, be in front of the crowd, first time seeing the stadium. So, it was a lot of experiences to take in at [once]. But, I think I learned a lot from that game just in terms of my routine and when I need to arrive and what I need to do to be ready,” Williams said. “Besides actually playing and getting in front of the fans, I think that is the biggest thing for me. It’s different from college. You don’t have a mandatory bus you got to be on or staying at a team hotel. But, you get to drive to the games. So, it’s a lot [different] and first experience like that of mine. So, it was big for me.”
There is a lot of excitement about Williams and the role he will play in the offense this season. He has performed well in training camp and in the Commanders’ joint practice with the Dolphins. His performance last season with the Clemson Tigers hurt his draft stock, but his 2024 numbers better show what he can do. In 2024, he had over 900 receiving yards and 11 touchdowns, leading the ACC.
Williams and the rest of the Commanders' offense will get their first regular-season action on Sun. Sept. 13 (4:25 p.m. / FOX) against the Philadelphia Eagles.
This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: Commanders rookie receiver on establishing his gameday routine during preseason
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