Antonio Williams Named to Prestigious Paul Hornung Award Preseason Watch List — Clemson’s Rising Star Recognized for Elite Versatility
CLEMSON, S.C. – July 31, 2025 — Clemson sophomore wide receiver Antonio Williams has officially been named to the 2025 Paul Hornung Award Preseason Watch List, cementing his place among the most versatile and dynamic players in college football.
The Paul Hornung Award, presented annually by the Louisville Sports Commission, honors the most versatile player in major college football — someone who demonstrates exceptional effort, toughness, discipline, and the ability to impact the game in multiple ways. For Williams, the nomination is not only an individual achievement, but a clear signal that he is emerging as one of the elite all-purpose threats in the nation.
🔹 Why Williams? A Rare Triple-Threat Talent
Since arriving at Clemson, Antonio Williams has proven he’s more than just a wideout. He’s a game-changer — one who can line up in the slot, take handoffs out of the backfield, and even serve as a return specialist when called upon.
In the 2024 season, Williams accomplished a feat not seen at Clemson since Sammy Watkins: he passed for, rushed for, and caught a touchdown in a single season — a rare triple-threat showcase that highlights just how complete his game has become.
2024 Season Stats:
Receiving Yards: 987 yards | 8 TDs
Rushing: 117 yards | 2 rushing TDs
Passing: 1-for-1 | 28-yard touchdown pass
Kick Returns: 10 returns | 285 yards
His versatility has made him a nightmare for defensive coordinators and a critical weapon in offensive coordinator Garrett Riley’s high-octane scheme.
🔹 Coach Swinney Weighs In: “He’s Got That Hornung DNA”
Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney has coached his fair share of superstars — DeAndre Hopkins, Sammy Watkins, Hunter Renfrow, and Tee Higgins, to name a few — but his praise for Williams is especially telling.
“Antonio reminds me a lot of what the Paul Hornung Award stands for — toughness, discipline, and a willingness to do whatever the team needs. He’s a Swiss Army knife on the field. He’s got that Hornung DNA,” said Swinney.
🔹 What the Hornung Award Means — and What’s Next
The Paul Hornung Award has previously honored players like Christian McCaffrey, Odell Beckham Jr., and most recently, Travis Hunter. These are athletes capable of turning the tide of a game in all three phases: offense, defense, and special teams. For Williams, being named to the watch list is a nod to his rising national profile — and a preview of what could be a breakout year.
The award’s emphasis on effort, physicality, and attitude fits Williams perfectly, as he continues to build on a season that already had scouts buzzing. NFL Draft insiders have called him “a future first-rounder” if his versatility and production continue to trend upward in 2025.
🔹 Clemson’s Return to Glory? Williams Might Be the Key
As Clemson pushes to return to the College Football Playoff, all eyes will be on Williams. With a reloaded receiving corps, a dual-threat quarterback, and an aggressive offensive scheme, Williams could be the focal point of a championship run — and now, he has national recognition to match.
The Tigers are scheduled to face several high-profile opponents this season, giving Williams the perfect stage to prove that he’s not just the most versatile player in the ACC, but in all of college football.
