Antwan Raymond takes a seat at a desk in Rutgers University’s athletic complex, ready for a Zoom interview. He’s dressed in grey sweats and a scarlet hoodie with a Nike logo near the collarbone. Despite the slightly loose fit, his muscular physique from high school remains evident.
Having excelled at Dalbé Viau High School in Lachine, Que., Raymond, a 5-foot-11, 205-pound running back, now gears up for his third season at Rutgers. His accomplishments last season included rushing for 1,241 yards, ranking third in the highly competitive Big Ten conference of the NCAA, and scoring 15 touchdowns, earning him All-Big Ten second team honors and a spot as a Doak Walker Award semifinalist.
Looking ahead to the 2026 season, Raymond aims to elevate Rutgers’ performance and position the program among the elite in the Big Ten. His focus on improving his football intelligence is evident as he approaches team meetings with the same dedication as a formal class session.
Raymond’s impact extends beyond the field, having won the Jon Cornish Award for the most outstanding Canadian player in NCAA football. Despite being a standout player, he remains relatively unknown in the Canadian sports scene, a status he hopes to change with continued success.
As NFL speculation looms, Raymond remains steadfast in concentrating on Rutgers’ upcoming games. However, with projections placing him as one of the top running backs in the NCAA, his potential for a professional football career garners attention.
Recognized for his strategic vision on the field, Raymond’s ability to read plays and make decisive moves sets him apart. His commitment to physical training and skill development, evident since his high school days, has shaped him into a formidable player.
Raymond’s journey from high school standout to a key player at Rutgers reflects a growing trend of Canadian athletes using U.S. schools as a pathway to NCAA opportunities. With aspirations to follow in the footsteps of past Canadian football greats, Raymond aims to leave a lasting legacy in both collegiate and potentially professional football.
As Raymond continues to excel on the field, his dedication to mastering the game and contributing to Rutgers’ success positions him as a promising talent with the potential to make waves in the NFL. With a rigorous schedule ahead and tough competition on the horizon, Raymond remains focused on the present, determined to make each practice and game count towards his ultimate goals.
