'He's always open': Commanders GM Adam Peters raves about rookie Antonio Williams

Washington Commanders wide receiver Terry McLaurin's season-ending torn patellar tendon has created a larger opportunity for Antonio Williams and a greater need for the rookie receiver to continue building trust with quarterback Jayden Daniels.

“I think every week it’s getting better. I mean, that comes with time." Williams said regarding his chemistry with Daniels during a media availability session. "Every time the ball comes my way, I want to make sure I’m in the right spot and, you know, trust and earn. So I’m just trying to earn that.”

Antonio Williams is forcing Washington's hand

If there was any indication that Williams' role is growing, it came against Philadelphia in Week 8. The rookie led the Commanders in targets, receptions and was one of Daniels' most trusted options throughout the game. 

He finished with a team-best seven targets and five receptions for 54 yards in his "Sunday Night Football" debut. 

In his last two primetime appearances against the San Francisco 49ers and Eagles, Williams has combined for eight receptions and 104 receiving yards. 

If there was any doubt about how highly the Commanders front office views Williams, general manager Adam Peters answered it during a recent interview on 106.7 The Fan, via Coachspeak Index. 

Peters described Williams as a receiver who is seemingly always open and has become a quarterback-friendly option whenever his number is called. 

“Every time we go to him, he comes through, man. And I feel like every play — whether he gets the ball or not — he’s open… He also has just this innate ability to find spots and be a friendly target for the quarterback. So, he’s earned the right to get more targets." 

Why the Commanders believed early

Peters' comments echo what Washington's coaching staff has believed about Williams dating back to training camp. The Commanders saw signs of his potential behind the scenes. 

"He's been very consistent since he's been here," offensive coordinator David Blough said prior to Week 1, about Williams, via Zach Selby of the Commanders team website. "We saw it on the tape. You see some of the ball skills that show up in the game. And so, as we continue to grow here, we're excited about his progression as we go down the road here."

As his role in Washington's offense continues to expand, Williams believes the key is maintaining the same mindset that earned him those opportunities in the first place. 

"I'm going to put my head down every day and put in all the work and be the best version of myself, and hopefully that's more than they expect from me," Williams said, via Selby.