Antwan Raymond takes a seat at a desk inside Rutgers University’s athletic complex, ready for a virtual interview wearing grey sweatpants and a scarlet hoodie adorned with a Nike logo. Despite the slightly loose fit of his attire, Raymond’s muscular physique, honed since his days at Dalbé Viau High School in Lachine, Que., is evident.
As he gears up for his third season at Rutgers, the 5-foot-11, 205-pound running back exudes a focused demeanor, accustomed to blocking out distractions and honing in on his goals. With an impressive track record that includes rushing for 1,241 yards last season – ranking him third in the competitive Big Ten conference – and securing 15 touchdowns, Raymond’s 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 determined to elevate Rutgers beyond their previous 5-7 record and establish the program among the Big Ten’s elite. Embracing a mindset of continuous improvement, he aims to enhance his football knowledge by approaching team meetings as valuable learning opportunities rather than routine sessions.
Raymond, a human resources management major who received Academic All-Big Ten honors, expresses his commitment to mastering the intricacies of the game and enhancing his on-field performance. His dedication and success have not gone unnoticed, as he clinched the Jon Cornish Award for the most outstanding Canadian player in NCAA football last year.
While Raymond remains focused on Rutgers’ current season and evades speculation about his NFL prospects, draft experts have taken notice of his talent. Described as a “workhorse back” with exceptional vision and room for growth in certain areas, Raymond’s performance on the field speaks volumes about his abilities and potential.
Throughout his journey from Montreal to Rutgers, Raymond’s unwavering work ethic and determination have set him apart as a rising star in Canadian sports. With aspirations to follow in the footsteps of Quebec-born NFL players, Raymond’s impact both on and off the field resonates as he strives to inspire future generations of athletes.
As Raymond continues to make strides in his football career, his focus remains on the present moment, prioritizing each upcoming challenge with unwavering dedication and determination.