Antwan Raymond is seated at a desk within the athletic complex of Rutgers University, ready for a virtual interview. He appears in grey sweats and a scarlet hoodie adorned with a Nike swoosh near the collarbone. Despite the slightly loose fit of his attire, Raymond’s muscular physique from his high school days in Lachine, Que., is evident.
As he gears up for his third season at Rutgers, the 5-foot-11, 205-pound running back reflects on his past achievements. In the previous season, Raymond, a Pierrefonds native, showcased his talent by rushing for 1,241 yards, ranking him third in the competitive Big Ten conference. His impressive performance led to a spot on the All-Big Ten second team and made him a semifinalist for the prestigious Doak Walker Award.
Looking ahead to the upcoming 2026 season, Raymond aims to elevate Rutgers’ standing from last year’s 5-7 record and elevate the program to compete at the highest level within the Big Ten. To achieve this, he is focused on enhancing his football knowledge and game awareness, treating each meeting and practice session with the utmost seriousness.
Despite his notable success, Raymond remains relatively unknown in Canadian sports. However, he is determined to change that narrative by continuing to excel on the field. His dedication and hard work have already earned him recognition, including the Jon Cornish Award for the most outstanding Canadian player in NCAA football.
Raymond’s journey from Montreal to Rutgers reflects a growing trend among Canadian players seeking opportunities in the NCAA through U.S. preparatory schools. With his eyes set on potential NFL prospects, Raymond remains grounded and focused on the present, prioritizing Rutgers’ upcoming games over any speculation about his professional future.
As Raymond prepares for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, his coach and mentors acknowledge his potential as a future NFL player. Despite critiques about his speed, Raymond’s skill set and determination make him a promising candidate for a successful career in professional football.
With a rigorous schedule ahead, including matchups against top-ranked teams, Raymond remains committed to his current responsibilities and goals. His relentless work ethic and dedication to his craft position him as a standout player, both at Rutgers and potentially in the NFL.
