A bold prediction for one Commanders' rookie

[ASFN Admin]

If you had one bold prediction for the Washington Commanders in 2026, what would it be? Quarterback Jayden Daniels returning to his 2024 self wouldn't be bold. If healthy, that's a very good possibility. What if Washington's defense improves and becomes a team strength? That would be a bold prediction, but certainly possible considering the investments that GM Adam Peters made on that side of the ball.

ESPN analyst Ben Solak recently made 10 predictions, and he had a member of the Commanders on his list. Solak's bold prediction: rookie wide receiver Antonio Williams would be the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year.

That is bold. Williams lasted until pick No. 71 overall,

Here's part of Solak's reasoning:

Who? Williams was the 71st pick of the 2026 draft and the ninth receiver off the board. Although receivers have recently won this award more frequently, we haven't seen late-drafted players break into the ranks. Even Puka Nacua's 105 receptions for 1,486 yards weren't enough to beat C.J. Stroud's strong rookie season in 2023. The latest-drafted receiver to win Rookie of the Year was Anquan Boldin in 2003 -- the 54th pick was a unanimous selection.

Solak then explains neither of the first-round quarterbacks is a contender to win the award, as they have veteran options in front of them. Fernando Mendoza will likely start at some point, but will it be enough to win this award? Obviously, Cardinals RB Jeremiyah Love is a top contender, but will he have enough carries?

More from Solak:

Williams is also a hand-in-glove fit for David Blough's Detroit-inspired offense. Williams is an easy glider who makes fearless catches over the middle of the field. He dramatically improved his drop rate in 2025 and has that knack for QB friendliness: smart routes, good adjustments to bad balls, inside/out versatility and YAC ability. He is evidently cut from the Amon-Ra St. Brown cloth, and St. Brown's reliability helped him break into the Lions' starting lineup as a fourth-round rookie.

It's hard not to like Williams' chances. Someone is going to have to step up opposite Terry McLaurin. Why not Williams? He's ready to help immediately. In David Blough's offense, could Williams be the Amon-Ra St. Brown? They compare favorably in some areas. Now, it's not fair to call Williams the next St. Brown, but the potential is there for a big rookie year.

This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: A bold prediction for one Commanders' rookie

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