When Antonio Williams decided to return for his senior season, it was a decision that wasn’t easy to make. Playing at the next level was something he’d always dreamed of, but the opportunity to return and be a leader in 2025 was even more intriguing.
“I think I’ve kind of been developing into that role over these last couple of years. Last year and this year, I’m pretty much the oldest guy that’s been here for a while. I think Tristan’s older than me, but it’s been cool to develop as a leader, try to get the guys to buy in every day, and set that standard in the [wide receiver] room.”
It’s a challenge that hasn’t always faced Clemson receivers of the past, with several recent standouts declaring for the draft while they still had eligibility remaining. Williams is taking that opportunity head-on.
His personal impact on the Tiger football program was another thing that was on Williams’ mind when he made the decision to come back.
“I was talking with all the coaches, and when they were trying to convince me to come back…a big word thrown around was legacy. I felt like leaving early, and not really ending [my career] the way I want to, wouldn’t have been a great finish to my career here at Clemson. Legacy was a big part of it.”
Heading into 2025, Clemson boasts one of the nation’s top receiving rooms, with returners like Williams, Bryant Wesco Jr., T.J. Moore, and Southeast Missouri State transfer Tristan Smith. Smith has garnered praise around the program, including from Williams and offensive coordinator Garrett Riley.
“He just has a different body type,” Williams said. “He brings a lot of personality as well. He’s got a 6’5” frame. Sometimes you’ll see a ball and it’s like ‘no way he’s getting to it’, or ‘no way he’s getting up that high’, and then somehow he just brings it down with the long arms and frame he has. He’s just a fun guy to be around. I’ve gotten the chance to be around him outside of football, and he’s just a joy to be around.”
With the Tigers looking to go back to the College Football Playoff and compete for a national championship, players like Williams will be vital to build on 2024’s success. Clemson has only made the Playoff once during the time that Williams’ class has been in Death Valley, but that hasn’t stopped him from raising expectations for next season.
“At the end of the day, I felt like I had a great opportunity to come back, win a National Championship and submit myself as one of the best receivers to come through here,” Williams said. “That’s my goal. Hopefully I can put together a great season, and as a team we can achieve all [of] our goals and win the big thing.”
Once the ball is kicked off between Clemson and LSU on August 30, there’s no doubt what Williams’ intentions will be.
