In an office at Rutgers University’s athletic complex, Antwan Raymond settles in for a Zoom interview, donning grey sweats and a scarlet hoodie with a Nike logo on the collar. His muscular physique, honed since high school in Lachine, Que., is evident even in the slightly oversized attire.
As he gears up for his third season at Rutgers, the 5-foot-11, 205-pound running back reflects on his impressive achievements. In the previous season, Raymond, hailing from Pierrefonds near Montreal, rushed for 1,241 yards, ranking third in the competitive Big Ten conference. His stellar performance earned him 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 season, Raymond is focused on taking Rutgers to greater heights and solidifying its position among the top programs in the Big Ten, such as Ohio State. Enhancing his football knowledge is a key goal for Raymond, who approaches team meetings as valuable learning opportunities rather than routine sessions.
Despite his accolades, Raymond remains relatively unknown in Canadian sports but aims to change that narrative through continued improvement. With aspirations to follow in the footsteps of Quebec-born NFL players, Raymond sees his success as a source of inspiration for aspiring athletes back home.
While NFL speculation swirls around him, Raymond remains steadfastly committed to his current responsibilities with Rutgers, prioritizing each game as it comes. NFL draft rankings position him as a promising prospect, highlighting his vision and room for growth in football terminology.
Raymond’s journey began at Dalbé Viau High School, where his dedication to training and development set him apart from a young age. Under the guidance of coach Gilles Lezi, Raymond honed his skills and work ethic, positioning himself for success both on and off the field.
As Raymond continues to make strides in his football career, his focus remains on his immediate challenges and goals, including leading Rutgers to victory in a demanding 2026 season. With determination and perseverance, Raymond aims to carve out a legacy as a standout Canadian athlete on the international stage.