Patriots Predicted to Draft Clemson WR Antonio Williams in 2026

Analyst cites Williams' 'rich ability to extend the life of the play' as a fit for QB Drake Maye

Apr. 6, 2026 at 10:06pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a football player in mid-catch, with sharp planes of color representing the Patriots' uniform and Clemson's colors, conveying the dynamic energy of the play.A cubist interpretation of a Clemson wide receiver making a play for the Patriots, symbolizing the team's efforts to add dynamic offensive talent.Clemson Today

In PFSN's latest NFL mock draft, the New England Patriots are projected to select Clemson wide receiver Antonio Williams in the second round. Analyst T.J. Randall believes Williams' skills as a polished route runner and ability to create after the catch make him an ideal complement to quarterback Drake Maye and the Patriots' receiving corps.

Why it matters

The Patriots' receiver room remains in flux after the team released Stefon Diggs, who led them in catches and yards in 2025. Adding a playmaker like Williams could help bolster the offense around Maye as the young QB continues to develop.

The details

Williams, a four-star recruit from South Carolina, made an immediate impact at Clemson, earning freshman All-American honors in 2022 with 56 catches for 604 yards and 4 touchdowns. After an injury-shortened 2023 season, he exploded as a junior in 2024 with 75 catches, 904 yards, and 11 touchdowns, earning first-team All-ACC recognition. He finished his collegiate career with 208 receptions for 2,336 yards and 23 touchdowns, ranking fourth all-time at Clemson in catches.

  • Williams was a four-star recruit who made an immediate impact as a freshman in 2022.
  • Injuries limited his 2023 season to 5 games, but he had a breakout junior year in 2024.
  • Williams finished his Clemson career ranked fourth all-time in receptions.

The players

Antonio Williams

A wide receiver from Clemson University who is projected to be drafted by the New England Patriots in the second round of the 2026 NFL Draft. Williams is known for his polished route running and ability to create plays after the catch.

Drake Maye

The starting quarterback for the New England Patriots, who could benefit from having a playmaker like Williams to throw to as he continues to develop.

Stefon Diggs

The wide receiver who led the Patriots in catches and yards in 2025 before being released, creating a need at the position that Williams could help fill.

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What they’re saying

“We'll switch things up here for the New England Patriots. The defensive side of the ball occupied this pick in both versions, but quarterback Drake Maye receives some reinforcement via Antonio Williams and his rich ability to extend the life of the play.”

— T.J. Randall, Analyst

What’s next

The Patriots will look to address their receiver needs in the 2026 NFL Draft, and analysts believe Antonio Williams could be a strong fit as a complementary piece to quarterback Drake Maye.

The takeaway

The Patriots' offense has lacked consistent playmakers outside of Stefon Diggs, who was recently released. Adding a versatile receiver like Antonio Williams, who can create separation and extend plays, could help bolster the unit around young QB Drake Maye as the team looks to build on its strong 2025 season.