Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix has a promising sophomore year ahead of him, but some are already looking to the 2026 NFL Draft to provide him some help.
A new mock draft has Denver landing one of college football’s most elusive playmakers, a potential WR1 who just might be the missing piece.
Could Antonio Williams Be Denver’s Next Big Weapon?
Clemson wideout Antonio Williams is already on the Broncos’ radar, at least, according to early projections. In a 2026 NFL Mock Draft using full-season simulations from the PFSN Playoff Predictor, analyst Mark Stolte pegged Williams as a logical fit for Denver at No. 27 overall.
“Despite registering a poor 4.5 yards per reception after the catch,” Stolte wrote, “I think Antonio Williams possesses an elite ability to make defenders miss in open space.”
The pick makes sense. Williams returned from an injury-shortened 2023 season and torched ACC defenses last fall, hauling in 75 passes for 904 yards and 11 touchdowns. He added another score on the ground, giving him 18 total career TDs heading into what could be his final collegiate season.
“Granted, Williams was solid on contested catches, hauling in 11 of 19 targets, but I think he’s at his best when he has space to work with,” Stolte added. “This fits well with what the Denver Broncos like to do on offense. The Broncos ranked 12th in passes of 20 or more yards, and Williams can help them crack the top 10.”
Why Antonio Williams Is a Smart Draft Fit for the Broncos
Though not the most physically imposing receiver at 5’10”, 190 pounds, Williams is built to thrive in space. According to Pro Football Focus, his separation score against single coverage ranks in the 88th percentile over the past two seasons, a huge green flag for teams in need of reliable one-on-one options.
For the Broncos, that’s a box checked. Denver leaned on the deep ball last season, and Nix has shown a willingness to take deep shots when given the opportunity. Williams caught 12 passes for 371 yards and six scores on such throws in 2024, which suggests he could pair well with that mindset.
Denver’s offense wasn’t the most explosive in 2024, but with a foundational QB in place, the timeline for a big swing at receiver in 2026 seems right. And if Williams continues on his current trajectory, the Broncos could be getting a steal late in the first round.
There’s still a full season to play, but if this prediction holds, Denver fans may want to start paying attention to what’s brewing in Clemson.
