- Javonte Williams
- #33
- Team DEN
- Pos RB
- Status AActive
-
Pre-Season Outlook
It would be helpful if the Denver offense could improve itself to provide a little relief, but at the very least there's reason to think Williams will do better in 2024 than he did in 2023, which was his first year back from the season-ending ACL, PCL and LCL tear from 2022. Williams played admirably in his quick return from a catastrophic injury, and in hindsight it's impressive that he could even eclipse 1,000 yards from scrimmage on an offense with so many problems. Of course, the Broncos are short on both draft capital and cap space, meaning the offense might remain challenged another year. That will no doubt fall on Williams and drag his efficiency down a bit, but if his knee is in better shape than last year there still could be room for Williams to break out in 2024, especially since he's a capable passing-down back (47 receptions in 2023). Although Samaje Perine and Jaleel McLaughlin loom as potential snap poachers, Williams at 100 percent should probably claim a larger share of the offense than he did in 2023.
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Finds end zone
Williams rushed nine times for 32 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 27-14 loss to the Raiders. He also caught seven of nine targets for 43 yards.
Analysis: Williams found the end zone from two yards out during the fourth quarter. That play marked his fifth total touchdown of the campaign, and Williams finished with 217 rushes for 774 yards on the ground and 47 grabs on 58 targets for 228 yards through the air in 16 games. With the Broncos seemingly set to acquire a new starting quarterback this offseason, the team also has a decision to make on Williams, whose current contract expires after next season.
Published: Sun, Jan 7 at 4:53pm by Rotowire.com
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Struggles with 18 touches
Williams rushed 15 times for 41 yards and caught all three of his targets for 17 yards in Sunday's 16-9 win over the Chargers.
Analysis: Williams' struggles continued after he finished with a per-carry average below three yards for the third game running. Unlike last week against the Patriots, the tailback was unable to offset his poor rushing production with a trip to the end zone. Jaleel McLaughlin (8-44-0) finished as the Broncos' leading rusher and continues to outproduce Williams both on the ground and also as a backfield receiver. The latter should still produce double-digit touches against the Raiders in Week 18, but he…read more
Published: Sun, Dec 31 at 5:26pm by Rotowire.com
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Score masks poor production
Williams had 11 carries for 24 yards and a touchdown while catching all three of his targets for a loss of five yards in Sunday's 26-23 loss to the Patriots.
Analysis: Williams finished with negative receiving yards and 20 or fewer yards from scrimmage for the second game in a row. He also coughed up his first fumble of the season. Unlike last week's dud against Detroit, the 23-year-old was able to offset the low yardage total with a short touchdown run in the first quarter. Williams also caught one of Russell Wilson's successful two-point attempts in the fourth quarter to give another boost to his managers' fantasy scores Sunday. Despite his recent…read more
Published: Sun, Dec 24 at 8:55pm by Rotowire.com
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Held to 20 yards
Williams rushed the ball 12 times for 27 yards in Saturday's 42-17 loss to the Lions. He added two receptions on two targets for minus-7 yards.
Analysis: Williams led the backfield with 14 total touches, but it was still a disastrous performance. His longest rush of the day went for only eight yards, while eight of his carries went for two yards or fewer. Positively, Williams has at least 16 touches in seven of his last eight games, so he should carry a significant workload into a Week 16 matchup against New England.
Published: Sat, Dec 16 at 11:55pm by Rotowire.com
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Scores first rushing TD since 2021
Williams rushed 17 times for 66 yards and a touchdown while catching three of four targets for 25 yards in Sunday's 24-7 win over the Chargers.
Analysis: Williams opened the scoring from three yards out with his first rushing touchdown since Week 16 of the 2021 season. He finished with at least 20 touches for the fourth time in the last six games, while Jaleel McLaughlin and Samaje Perine combined for seven carries. The robust workload can be attributed to both Williams being up to speed after tearing his ACL last year and the Broncos playing from ahead more often. Denver has won six of its last seven games heading into Saturday's tough test in…read more
Published: Sun, Dec 10 at 5:24pm by Rotowire.com
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Held to 70 total yards
Williams rushed the ball 13 times for 46 yards in Sunday's 22-17 loss to the Texans. He added three catches on three targets for 24 yards.
Analysis: Williams maintained the clear lead-back role, though he still fell short of 20 touches for the second time in his last five games. He was inefficient with his opportunity and was limited to under four yards per carry for the fifth consecutive contest. While it's positive that Williams has multiple catches in every game in that span, he's shown to be an unexplosive rusher in a mediocre offense, making him difficult to trust on a weekly basis.
Published: Sun, Dec 3 at 5:09pm by Rotowire.com
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Held in check by Browns
Williams carried the ball 18 times for 65 yards and caught three of six targets for six yards in Sunday's 29-12 win over the Browns.
Analysis: The third-year back saw more than 20 touches for the third time in the last four games, but Williams wasn't able to do much with the volume. He also missed a chance to pad his production when Samaje Perine vultured a three-yard TD run in the first quarter while Williams was briefly sidelined with a neck issue, but per Parker Gabriel of The Denver Post, he returned for the next drive. The six targets tied his season high, and he continues to provide a solid PPR floor by catching multiple passes…read more
Published: Sun, Nov 26 at 6:11pm by Rotowire.com
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Struggles with 13 touches
Williams rushed 11 times for 37 yards and caught both of his targets for 16 yards in Sunday's 21-20 win over the Vikings.
Analysis: Williams had a rough go of things on the ground against the Vikings, who have been stingy against the run this season (94.0 yards/game). The 23-year-old was also coming off consecutive games with 20-plus carries, so perhaps the talented back finally hit a wall after successfully returning from major injury this past offseason. Williams still operated as Denver's lead back, with no other RB recording more than one carry Sunday. Things won't get any easier for Williams in Week 12, as the Broncos…read more
Published: Sun, Nov 19 at 9:39pm by Rotowire.com
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Tallies second receiving score
Williams rushed the ball 21 times for 79 yards in Monday's 24-22 win over Buffalo. He added four receptions for 31 yards and a touchdown.
Analysis: Wiliams wasn't particularly efficient on the ground, but he earned at least 20 carries for the second consecutive week. He supplemented that work as a pass catcher, which helped him surpass 100 total yards from scrimmage for the first time this season. His effort was highlighted by a three-yard touchdown reception late in the fourth quarter that temporarily gave the Broncos the lead. After a slow start to the season, Williams has receiving touchdowns in consecutive games and has at least 75…read more
Published: Mon, Nov 13 at 8:53pm by Rotowire.com
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Commands 30 touches in win
Williams rushed 27 times for 85 yards and caught all three of his targets for 13 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 24-9 upset win over the Chiefs.
Analysis: Williams finally delivered his first touchdown of the fantasy season after being held out of the end zone in his previous six appearances. The 23-year-old struggled to break through Kansas City's beefy front, resulting in a 3.1 yard average on his 27 rushing attempts Sunday. Despite the subpar efficiency, Williams finished near the century mark in yardage for the second consecutive week after injuries limited his production earlier this season. Williams' improved health and ballooning touch…read more
Published: Sun, Oct 29 at 6:15pm by Rotowire.com
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Approaches 100 yards
Williams rushed 15 times for 82 yards and caught three of four targets for 14 yards in Sunday's 19-17 win over the Packers.
Analysis: Williams posted season highs in carries and yards on the ground. His 5.5 yards per rush was also his best this term, giving him consecutive games with over 5.0 per attempt. Coming off last year's knee injury, Williams appears to be getting back to his best form. However, with no touchdowns through six contests, his ceiling is limited going into Week 8 versus the Chiefs.
Published: Sun, Oct 22 at 4:38pm by Rotowire.com
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Logs 52 rushing yards Thursday
Williams (quadricep) rushed 10 times for 52 yards and recorded a two-point conversion run in the Broncos' 19-8 loss to the Chiefs on Thursday night.
Analysis: Making his return from a one-game absence, Williams handled three more carries than impressive undrafted rookie Jaleel McLaughlin and looked explosive on his game-long 18-yard run. Williams also crossed the goal line on a two-point conversion rush following Courtland Sutton's 11-yard touchdown reception just past the midway point of the fourth quarter, and the running back's yardage total tied the season-high figure he'd established in Week 1. While McLaughlin certainly looks like he's earned a…read more
Published: Thu, Oct 12 at 8:44pm by Rotowire.com
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Good to go for Thursday
Williams (quadricep) doesn't have an injury designation for Thursday's game in Kansas City, Troy Renck of Denver 7 News reports.
Analysis: Williams was inactive for this pat Sunday's loss to the Jets after being listed as a full practice participant Friday, but he'll get the green light to play Week 6 after full sessions Tuesday and Wednesday. He should step back in as the lead runner, albeit with Jaleel McLaughlin as a threat to steal carries and Samaje Perine as a strong candidate for some of the passing-down snaps. Prior to sitting out Week 5, Williams averaged 12 carries for 46 yards and 2.7 catches for 14 yards over the first…read more
Published: Wed, Oct 11 at 1:35pm by Rotowire.com
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Full participant at walkthrough
Williams (quadriceps) practiced fully at Tuesday's walkthrough, Aric DiLalla of the Broncos' official site reports.
Analysis: Williams was considered a true game-time decision due to a quad injury for this past Sunday's contest against the Jets before the team made him inactive. Coach Sean Payton said Tuesday that Williams was "close" to being able to suit up, and if it was the postseason (instead of the regular season) he "could've gone." With Williams out Week 5, Samaje Perine got the start and played 38 of 63 offensive snaps on his way to 10 touches for 95 yards from scrimmage, while Jaleel McLaughlin earned 21…read more
Published: Tue, Oct 10 at 2:45pm by Rotowire.com
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Listed as limited Monday
Williams (quad) was listed as a limited participant on Denver's estimated practice report Monday.
Analysis: Williams missed Sunday's loss to the Jets after going down with the injury Week 4. The Broncos travel to Kansas City for Week 6 this Thursday night. In Williams' Week 5 absence, Samaje Perine led the backfield with 38 snaps to Jaleel McLaughlin's 21, but McLaughlin out-carried Perine, 9-6, and finished with 89 total yards and one TD on 12 touches. Perine led the team in receiving with a 4-73-0 line on five targets and added 22 yards on six carries.
Published: Mon, Oct 9 at 1:24pm by Rotowire.com
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Inactive Sunday
Williams (quad) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Jets.
Analysis: After missing Wednesday's practice and being limited a day later, Williams upgraded to full participation Friday; however he'll be sidelined Sunday, perhaps with an eye toward keeping him healthy and fresh for this coming Thursday's contest against the Chiefs. In his absence, Samaje Perine and Jaleel McLaughlin are in line to see expanded roles out of the Broncos' Week 5 backfield, with Dwayne Washington in reserve. When Williams logged just eight snaps (with two carries and three catches) on…read more
Published: Sun, Oct 8 at 12:04pm by Rotowire.com
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True game-time decision
The Broncos won't make a decision on the status of Williams (quadricep) -- who is listed as questionable for Sunday's contest against the Jets -- until after pregame warmups, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.
Analysis: Despite practicing in full Friday, Williams looks like a true game-time decision for Week 5. As such, fantasy managers likely won't have full clarity on his status until Denver's inactives list is released roughly 90 minutes ahead of Sunday's 4:25 p.m. ET kickoff. In the event that Williams can't go, Samaje Perine and Jaleel McLaughlin will be in line to lead the Denver backfield.
Published: Sun, Oct 8 at 3:33am by Rotowire.com
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Full practice, listed as questionable
Williams (quad) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Jets after practicing fully Friday, Aric DiLalla of the Broncos' official site reports.
Analysis: After missing Wednesday's practice and being limited Thursday, Williams upgraded to full participation Friday, which has the running back trending in the right direction ahead of Sunday's 4:25 p.m. ET kickoff. Look for added context regarding his Week 5 status to arrive late Saturday or early Sunday once national reporters like Adam Schefter of ESPN and Ian Rapoport of NFL Network provide their weekly pregame injury updates.
Published: Fri, Oct 6 at 2:31pm by Rotowire.com
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Logs limited practice
Williams (quad) was listed as limited at practice Thursday.
Analysis: Williams didn't practice Wednesday, but his return to Thursday's session, albeit in a limited capacity, is a good sign regarding his chances of being available Sunday against the Jets. However, Denver's lead back will presumably need to practice fully Friday in order to avoid a Week 5 injury designation.
Published: Thu, Oct 5 at 2:28pm by Rotowire.com
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Back at practice
Williams (quadricep) returned to practice Thursday, Chris Tomasson of The Denver Gazette reports.
Analysis: Williams sat out Wednesday's practice, but his return to the field a day later bodes well for his chances of playing Sunday against the Jets. The Broncos' upcoming Thursday practice report will add further context on that front by clarifying whether the running back was a limited or full participant.
Published: Thu, Oct 5 at 1:30pm by Rotowire.com
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Dealing with quad issue
Williams sat out Wednesday's practice with a listed quadricep injury.
Analysis: Williams exited the Broncos' Week 4 win over the Bears in the first half with what was originally cited as a hip flexor, but the team is labeling his injury differently three days later. Regardless, Williams' status for Sunday's game against the Jets is unclear, but the Broncos will see what, if anything, he's able to do Thursday and Friday before ruling on his status. If Williams is sidelined this weekend, Samaje Perine and Jaleel McLaughlin would be in line to see expanded roles out of the…read more
Published: Wed, Oct 4 at 3:38pm by Rotowire.com
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Misses practice Wednesday
Williams (hip) didn't practice Wednesday, Zac Stevens of TheDNVR.com reports.
Analysis: Williams suffered a hip flexor injury in this past Sunday's 31-28 win over the Bears, so the running back's status will be worth monitoring closely in advance of this weekend's contest against the Jets. If Williams is sidelined or available in only a limited capacity Week 5, Samaje Perine and Jaleel McLaughlin would be in store for added reps out of the Denver backfield.
Published: Wed, Oct 4 at 1:45pm by Rotowire.com
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Not expected to miss much time
Williams (hip) suffered a hip flexor injury in Sunday's 31-28 win over the Bears, and the running back isn't expected to miss much time, if any, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.
Analysis: Williams exited the game in Chicago after only two drives, but he avoided a major injury. Williams' practice participation leading up to the Week 5 home game against the Jets will likely provide insight regarding his availability for the game. Rookie Jaleel McLaughlin had 104 scrimmage yards and a touchdown with Williams hurt Sunday, so the latter could cede touches to both McLaughlin and Samaje Perine upon the starting running back's return.
Published: Sun, Oct 1 at 6:18pm by Rotowire.com
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Won't return to Week 4 contest
Williams (hip) has been downgraded to out for Sunday's game against the Bears, Zac Stevens of TheDNVR.com reports
Analysis: Williams played only the first two offensive drives of the day before departing with the injury and will finish with two carries for zero yards and three receptions for nine yards on three targets. Jaleel McLaughlin and Samaje Perine will serve as the Broncos' running backs for the rest of the game.
Published: Sun, Oct 1 at 11:45am by Rotowire.com
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Exits Sunday's game
Williams was forced out of Sunday's game against the Bears with a hip injury, Zac Stevens of TheDNVR.com reports.
Analysis: Prior to his exit, Williams carried twice for zero yards and caught three passes for nine yards. In his absence, Samaje Perine and Jaleel McLaughlin are next up for the Broncos' Week 4 backfield touches.
Published: Sun, Oct 1 at 10:49am by Rotowire.com
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Garners 65 total yards in loss
William rushed 11 times for 42 yards and brought in two of three targets for 23 yards in the Broncos' 70-20 loss to the Dolphins on Sunday.
Analysis: Williams' overall opportunities were naturally capped by a bizarre game script that saw the Broncos down 22 at halftime and 36 heading into the final period, but he turned in serviceable production relative to his workload. The third-year back has been solid over the first three games as he shakes off rust following last season's ACL/LCL tears, but he's topped out at 52 rushing yards and Sunday's 23 receiving yards thus far.
Published: Sun, Sep 24 at 3:08pm by Rotowire.com
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Quiet day on 14 touches
Williams rushed 12 times for 44 yards and caught two of three targets for 14 yards in Sunday's 35-33 loss to to the Commanders.
Analysis: Williams had trouble finding room to run against the strength of Washington's defense, its defensive line, despite starting the second half up two scores. The positive news for fantasy managers is that the 2021 second-round pick continued to dominate the backfield touches, with no other Denver back receiving more than one carry Sunday. Patience should be preached here, as Williams currently has a great role in head coach Sean Payton's offense to go along with his great potential as a player.…read more
Published: Sun, Sep 17 at 6:18pm by Rotowire.com
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Solid involvement in Week 1 loss
Williams rushed 13 times for 52 yards and brought in four of six targets for five yards in the Broncos' 17-16 loss to the Raiders on Sunday.
Analysis: Playing in his first regular-season game since tearing his ACL and LCL in Week 4 of last season, Williams enjoyed a solid touch count. The third-year back comfortably paced the Broncos' backfield in carries and was as involved in the passing game in the team's new offense as he'd been under prior coaching regimes. Williams should progressively build his workload in the coming weeks, with his first opportunity to do so coming in a Week 2 home matchup against the Commanders.
Published: Sun, Sep 10 at 4:50pm by Rotowire.com
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Scheduled for big role Week 1
Broncos head coach Sean Payton said Wednesday that Williams will have a "big role" this Sunday against the Raiders, Zac Stevens of TheDNVR.com reports.
Analysis: A busy Week 1 as Denver's lead back looked like a remote possibility for Williams back in the spring, but he's made a surprisingly smooth recovery from surgery to address ACL and LCL tears to his right knee, which he suffered last October. Fears that Williams may open the season on the PUP list have now morphed into hopes that he can deliver big-time production in September, though offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi acknowledged two weeks ago that the Broncos might start Williams off with…read more
Published: Wed, Sep 6 at 2:15pm by Rotowire.com
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Lightened workload early on?
Broncos OC Joe Lombardi suggested Williams may have a lighter workload at the start of the season before progressing to his full role, Troy Renck of Denver 7 News reports.
Analysis: Lombardi didn't use the strongest wording but did acknowledge the possibility of easing Williams into whatever his "full workload" might ultimately be. An appearance in the second week of the preseason -- with seven touches for 30 yards -- has Williams well on his way to starting when the Broncos host the Raiders in Week 1. There's still a strong chance of Samaje Perine getting a bunch of snaps/touches in that game, but Williams is the favorite to lead the team in carries.
Published: Thu, Aug 24 at 11:59am by Rotowire.com
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Successful return from injury
Williams (knee) rushed three times for 12 yards and caught four of five targets for 18 yards in Saturday's preseason loss to the 49ers.
Analysis: Williams completed his impressive recovery from a torn ACL (sustained in Week 4 last season) with Saturday's exhibition appearance. Head coach Sean Payton stuck to his plan of giving the 23-year-old 10-to-12 plays with the starters, finishing with seven touches for 30 yards. It's unclear if Williams will play in Denver's preseason finale against the Rams on Saturday. Either way, it appears that Williams is ramping up for Week 1, which should ease the thoughts of concerned fantasy managers after…read more
Published: Sat, Aug 19 at 9:00pm by Rotowire.com
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To see 10-12 snaps
Coach Sean Payton said Thursday that Williams will handle 10-12 plays during Saturday's preseason game against the 49ers, Zac Stevens of TheDNVR.com reports.
Analysis: Payton said he wants Williams to handle three to four carries, per Aric DiLalla of the Broncos' official site, a solid workload if his snap count indeed barely reaches double digits. Williams is in the final stages of what has been an impressive recovery from ACL surgery, though in his first game action Saturday he's set to play less snaps than the rest of Denver's starters.
Published: Thu, Aug 17 at 11:29am by Rotowire.com
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Ready for preseason debut
Williams (knee) will suit up for Saturday's preseason game against the 49ers, Aric DiLalla of the Broncos' official site reports.
Analysis: Coach Sean Payton said Tuesday he isn't sure yet how many snaps Williams will handle, but the announcement bodes exceptionally well for the 23-year-old as he completes his recovery from ACL surgery. Though Payton noted that the Broncos will be smart with Williams, it would seem that he's on track to start Week 1 versus the Raiders. Denver does have Samaje Perine available to take on a significant workload should Williams need to be eased back into action.
Published: Tue, Aug 15 at 11:43am by Rotowire.com
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Slated to see preseason action
Coach Sean Payton noted Thursday that Williams (knee) will play some snaps during the preseason, Aric DiLalla of the Broncos' official site reports.
Analysis: The report notes that the Broncos may wait until the team's second exhibition game to get Williams in action, but either way, the mere fact that the running back has already progressed to this point is a major step in his recovery from a knee injury that ended his 2022 season in Week 4. Assuming Williams does in fact log preseason snaps as planned, he'd be on track to be available for Denver's regular-season opener, barring any setbacks. In such a scenario, should the team elect to ease the…read more
Published: Thu, Aug 3 at 11:34am by Rotowire.com
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Limited at practice Wednesday
Williams (knee) didn't participate in team drills during Wednesday's practice, Aric DiLalla of the Broncos' official site reports.
Analysis: James Palmer of NFL Network previously reported that Williams, who continues to recover from a knee injury that ended his 2022 season in Week 4, would be in line to rest Wednesday, so the running back's limitations were presumably a matter of load management. Per Dan Graziano and Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com, the pace of Williams' recovery from ACL surgery is highly encouraging thus far, and the Broncos have optimism that the running back can be ready to go for Week 1 in the absence of any…read more
Published: Wed, Aug 2 at 1:00pm by Rotowire.com
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Can participate Monday
Williams (knee) remains ahead of schedule and can participate Monday when the Broncos put on pads for the first time this summer, Zac Stevens of TheDNVR.com reports
Analysis: Doctors reportedly told Williams his recovery from ACL, LCL and PCL tears could take a year to 18 months, but he avoided the PUP list for the start of training camp last week, less than 10 months after suffering the injury. Although he's been cleared for contact, the running back may still have some limitations in the coming weeks as the Broncos assess his readiness for the regular season. Williams suggested to reporters last week that it will be up to the team's coaching staff whether he plays…read more
Published: Mon, Jul 31 at 6:56am by Rotowire.com
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Cleared for contact
Williams (knee) indicated Thursday that he's been cleared for contact, Aric DiLalla of the Broncos' official site reports.
Analysis: Given that Williams suffered a season-ending knee injury (including a torn ACL) in Week 4 last year, we'd expect the Broncos to proceed cautiously with the young running back this summer, but the pace of the 2021 second-rounder's recovery is nonetheless very encouraging. For his part, Williams suggested Thursday that whether he plays in the upcoming preseason will be up to the team's coaching staff.
Published: Thu, Jul 27 at 11:14am by Rotowire.com
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Practices on first day of camp
Williams (knee) participated in the first day of Denver's training camp Wednesday, but the team plans to bring him along slowly with a mix of limited practices and days off, James Palmer of NFL Network reports.
Analysis: The Broncos have little reason to rush Williams' recovery with six weeks left before the start of the season, but the team is encouraged with his progress as the running back works his way back from a torn ACL suffered Oct. 2 of last year. Williams' ability to practice in any capacity at this point is a positive sign, and he projects to return to the top of the depth chart once deemed 100 percent healthy.
Published: Wed, Jul 26 at 10:46am by Rotowire.com
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Avoids active/PUP list
Williams won't be placed on the active/PUP list to start training camp, James Palmer of NFL Network reports.
Analysis: Williams was hoping to be ready for the start of training camp, and it appears that'll be the case, as he's avoided the PUP list for now. However, the running back's participation to begin camp remains unclear. Williams suffered season-ending ACL and LCL tears in Week 4 last year and was a limited participant during OTAs in May. He's previously mentioned that he'll continue to wear a brace on his surgically repaired right knee, and the Broncos will presumably be cautious during the preseason.…read more
Published: Sun, Jul 23 at 1:58pm by Rotowire.com
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Plans to be ready for training camp
Williams (knee) said Sunday that the Broncos' "plan" is to clear him for the start of training camp and that he will participate in some capacity during practices after veteran players report July 25, Jeff Legwold of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Williams added that he "feels like [he's] ready to go" when talking to reporters Sunday regarding his status for training camp, though he still indicated that his activity level will ultimately come down to the Broncos' evaluation of his on-field running and movements. The 220-pound back suffered season-ending ACL and LCL tears during Week 4 last year, and he was a limited participant during OTA sessions this offseason. Williams also mentioned that, no matter his activity level, he will…read more
Published: Sun, Jul 9 at 12:06pm by Rotowire.com
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Doing limited work at OTAs
Williams (knee) was a limited participant in Thursday's OTA practice, Chris Tomasson of The Denver Gazette reports.
Analysis: There's no contact at this early stage of the offseason, and Williams presumably will be sitting out once there is. Still, this shows he's making progress in his rehab from ACL and LCL tears suffered Week 4 last year. GM George Paton hinted in March (and again in April) that he wasn't sure about Williams' Week 1 availability, and while that may still be the case, new coach Sean Payton says the Broncos are encouraged by the RB's early progress. Offseason addition Samaje Perine is the obvious…read more
Published: Thu, May 25 at 11:21am by Rotowire.com
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Making steady progress in recovery
Broncos head coach Sean Payton believes there's a "good chance" Williams will avoid the PUP list to begin training camp, Nick Kosmider of The Athletic reports.
Analysis: This is the first bit of reported optimism regarding Williams' status to start the 2023 season given general manager George Paton had previously made couched remarks regarding the star running back's availability when August rolls around. The third-year player saw his 2022 season cut short in Week 4 after tearing his ACL and LCL along with severe bruising in other areas of his knee. Rehab from the season-ending surgery was thought to be a long road, but evidently the 23-year-old has made…read more
Published: Sat, May 13 at 1:09pm by Rotowire.com
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Uncertain for Week 1
Broncos GM George Paton reiterated Thursday that he isn't sure when Williams (knee) will be ready for games but does know it will be at some point in 2023, Chris Tomasson of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.
Analysis: Paton made similar comments in late March, responding, " we won't know that for a while," when a reporter asked him if Williams would be ready for Week 1. The 2021 second-round pick is rehabbing multiple ligament tears in his right knee, including an ACL, and the Broncos don't have much experience in their backfield beyond Williams and new addition Samaje Perine. Paton thus acknowledged the possibility of the team drafting a running back, though Denver's lack of capital (no picks in the first…read more
Published: Thu, Apr 20 at 12:00pm by Rotowire.com
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Making strides in rehab
Speaking Monday, Broncos GM George Paton said Williams (knee) is making "great strides" in his rehab, according to Nick Kosmider of The Athletic.
Analysis: When asked if Williams will be ready for the start of the 2023 season, Paton said, "We won't know that for a while." The reports and quotes surrounding Williams' rehab from multiple torn ligaments in his right knee, including his ACL, have made it clear that Williams' Week 1 status is definitely up in the air. The Broncos signed veteran Samaje Perine to a two-year, $7.5 million deal in the opening week of free agency, and there are expectations the team will add more to its backfield in the…read more
Published: Mon, Mar 27 at 11:58am by Rotowire.com
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Could be healthy for start of 2023
Broncos general manager George Paton said Tuesday that Williams (knee) is "on track" for the start of 2023, James Palmer of NFL Network reports.
Analysis: Despite reports saying Williams could miss a significant portion of the upcoming season, the Broncos appear confident they'll have their dynamic running back in the fold to start 2023, although Paton indicated a plan would be in place if he's not ready for Week 1. Williams tore his ACL and LCL in Week 4 last season and underwent season-ending surgery. He has made some progress in his rehab and is currently able to jog, per Palmer, but he still has plenty of hurdles to clear before he's deemed…read more
Published: Tue, Feb 28 at 7:47am by Rotowire.com
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Could miss games in 2023
Williams (knee) could be sidelined "well into the 2023 season," according to ESPN's Jeff Legwold.
Analysis: Williams tore his ACL and LCL in Week 4 of last season and obviously missed the remainder of the year. His injury recovery will be a hot topic leading into training camp and fantasy drafts this summer. With Williams still rehabbing and all three of Latavius Murray, Mike Boone, and Marlon Mack scheduled for free agency, running back is an area of need for the Broncos.
Published: Thu, Feb 23 at 12:07pm by Rotowire.com
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Heads to IR
The Broncos placed Williams (knee) on injured reserve Tuesday, Aric DiLalla of the team's official site reports.
Analysis: The transaction officially removes Williams from the Broncos' 53-man roster after he suffered a season-ending ACL and LCL tear in his right knee in Sunday's loss to the Raiders. Williams is set to undergo surgery in the coming days and will turn his focus toward gaining clearance for the start of training camp next summer. In a corresponding move, the Broncos signed veteran Latavius Murray off the Saints' practice squad Tuesday to add another option to a backfield that also includes Melvin…read more
Published: Tue, Oct 4 at 8:23am by Rotowire.com
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Season-ending torn ACL
Williams (knee) suffered a season-ending right ACL tear during Sunday's 32-23 loss to the Raiders, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.
Analysis: Williams' injury is a brutal blow for Denver's offensive scheme and awful timing for the second-year pro, who had 47 carries for 204 yards (4.3 YPC) and 16 catches for 72 yards on 22 targets through the first four weeks of the season. Melvin Gordon looks set to take over as the Broncos' lead back in Williams' absence, beginning with a Thursday Knight Football matchup against the Colts, while Mike Boone also will be in line for increased work. Williams, meanwhile, will undergo surgery and turn…read more
Published: Mon, Oct 3 at 9:59am by Rotowire.com
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Could face lengthy absence
Williams is believed to have suffered a serious right knee injury in Sunday's 32-23 loss to Vegas, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.
Analysis: An upcoming MRI on Williams' knee Monday should reveal more details regarding his injury, but the Broncos fear that he could be facing a lengthy absence. Melvin Gordon and Mike Boone would both be in line for additional touches in Williams' absence, with Gordon likely to take on the lead role in Denver's backfield. Williams needed crutches to leave the locker room after Sunday's loss.
Published: Sun, Oct 2 at 6:03pm by Rotowire.com
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Spotted on crutches
Williams (knee) left the locker room on crutches after Sunday's 32-23 loss to the Raiders, and coach Nathaniel Hackett said the running back will have an MRI on Monday, Jeff Legwold of ESPN reports.
Analysis: Williams injured his knee early in the second half, and he's likely to miss additional time considering he needed crutches to get around after the game. A more definitive timetable on Williams' recovery should emerge after the results of his MRI become known. Melvin Gordon figures to lead Denver's backfield in Williams' absence, though Gordon's continued fumbling issues have likely opened up an opportunity for Mike Boone to siphon off a sizable number of touches as well.
Published: Sun, Oct 2 at 5:13pm by Rotowire.com
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Hurts knee Sunday
Williams exited Sunday's game at Las Vegas with a knee injury.
Analysis: On the first play of the second half, Williams remained on the turf for a spell, and when he attempted to get off the field, he needed assistance from the training staff to get to the sideline. After an evaluation, he was carted to the locker room and quickly ruled out. The severity of Williams' injury is unclear, but Melvin Gordon will slide in as the Broncos' top running back for the rest of Week 4, with Mike Boone acting as the No. 2.
Published: Sun, Oct 2 at 3:18pm by Rotowire.com
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Paces backfield with 58 yards
Williams rushed 15 times for 58 yards and caught three of five targets for two yards in Sunday's 11-10 win over the 49ers.
Analysis: Williams put together another solid stat line alongside co-starter Melvin Gordon (18-17 total touch distribution), but it was the latter who was rewarded with a one-yard TD run to close out the win for Denver. The 22-year-old had an ugly drop that hit him in the hands, which further proves that his 11-catch performance back in Week 1 was an anomaly. Williams remains a high-floor, low-ceiling option heading into next Sunday's tilt against the Raiders.
Published: Sun, Sep 25 at 10:15pm by Rotowire.com
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Leads Denver in rushing
Williams rushed 15 times for 75 yards and caught one of four targets for 10 yards in Sunday's 16-9 win over the Texans.
Analysis: On a day when the Denver offense struggled to get much of anything going, Williams didn't do much in the box score to win the week for fantasy managers. However, he did operate as Denver's lead back once again, seeing five more attempts on the ground and three more targets through the air than fellow running back Melvin Gordon. Though Gordon is still involved, it's clear the Broncos are comfortable with giving Williams the opportunity to establish himself as the leader of the Denver backfield.…read more
Published: Sun, Sep 18 at 6:02pm by Rotowire.com
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Costly fumble mars 11-catch night
Williams rushed seven times for 43 yards, caught 11 of 12 targets for 65 yards and lost a fumble in Monday's 17-16 loss to the Seahawks.
Analysis: Williams had a golden opportunity to establish himself as Denver's preferred option at the goal line after Melvin Gordon fumbled on the one-yard line in the third quarter, but Williams returned the favor on the very next possession by fumbling on the four-yard line. Denver trailed throughout the game, which led to heavy involvement for Williams as a pass catcher, showing that he has a substantial touch floor despite the presence of Gordon. In Week 2, the Broncos will host a Houston team that…read more
Published: Mon, Sep 12 at 9:02pm by Rotowire.com
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Set to face Seattle in opener
As Monday night's season opener against the Seahawks approaches, coach Nathaniel Hackett noted that the Broncos are in a "really good place" with a Week 1 backfield comprised of Williams, Melvin Gordon and Mike Boone, Zac Stevens of TheDNVR.com reports.
Analysis: Williams and Gordon, who both logged 203 carries last year, are in line to continue handling the bulk of Denver's rushing opportunities in 2022, with Boone in reserve. Looking ahead, it's a timeshare that figures to tilt in Williams' favor, a notion reflected by his lofty average draft position (relative to Gordon) ahead of Week 1, but Hackett did tell Stevens on Friday that he's a believer in rolling with "the hot hand." Either way, we expect the Broncos to find ways to get Williams his share…read more
Published: Fri, Sep 9 at 3:58pm by Rotowire.com
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Unlikely to play this week
Coach Nathaniel Hackett suggested Williams and other key players will be held out for a third straight week when the Broncos face the Vikings on Saturday in their preseason finale, Zac Stevens of TheDNVR.com reports.
Analysis: Nearly everyone, including backfield mate Melvin Gordon, expects Williams to take on a larger share of the workload in his second season. There's also the likelihood of increased offensive output overall for the Broncos with QB Russell Wilson taking over, but Williams still has Gordon lingering as a thorn in the side of fantasy managers, with the veteran likely to get a decent number of touches each week. The talented duo gets a favorable matchup to start the regular season, heading to Seattle…read more
Published: Mon, Aug 22 at 11:54am by Rotowire.com
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Likely held out this weekend
Williams and other key players aren't expected to play in Saturday's preseason game against the Bills, The Denver Post reports.
Analysis: Buffalo, on the other hand, is expected to play most starters. It'll mostly be a guessing game trying to figure out the workload split between Williams and Melvin Gordon until the regular season actually starts, though Gordon did recently mention that it seems like the Broncos want Williams to be the main guy, i.e., what most had assumed anyway after his strong finish to last year. Whether that means 55 percent of the workload or closer to 70-75 percent remains to be seen.
Published: Fri, Aug 19 at 1:31pm by Rotowire.com
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Listed as starter
Williams is listed as the starting running back on the Broncos' first unofficial depth chart ahead of Saturday's preseason opener against the Cowboys, Zac Stevens of TheDNVR.com reports.
Analysis: Williams' placement atop the depth chart doesn't come as a major surprise, as recent reports have indicated that the second-year back has received the slight edge in snaps with the first-team offense in training camp over veteran Melvin Gordon. With Gordon playing on an expiring deal and set to turn 30 next offseason, Denver will likely prepare for the 22-year-old Williams to operate as Option 1A out of the backfield after the two had worked in a near-even timeshare in 2021. With that said, the…read more
Published: Wed, Aug 10 at 7:01am by Rotowire.com
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Facing uncertain split with Gordon
Cecil Lammey of 104.3 The Fan reports that Williams has taken the first snap at six of seven practices and could get around 70 percent of the RB workload this year, while Benjamin Albright of KOA Colorado suggests the split between William and Melvin Gordon at camp has been around 55/45.
Analysis: There's widespread agreement about Williams being the No. 1 back, after Gordon had the slightly larger portion of a timeshare most of last year. The extent of Gordon's 2022 involvement is where disagreement begins, and while there's a good chance we don't really know until after Week 1, it nonetheless figures to remain a popular topic of discussion. Williams had late-first-round fantasy hype this offseason when Gordon was a free agent, with the second-year pro later dropping to a third-round…read more
Published: Thu, Aug 4 at 1:53pm by Rotowire.com
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Set to share work with Gordon again
Williams will be paired with Melvin Gordon in the backfield once again 2022 after the Broncos re-signed Gordon to a one-year deal Tuesday, Jeff Legwold of ESPN.com reports.
Analysis: Prior to Denver bringing back Gordon, Williams seemed positioned to see a big boost in his workload this coming season, but a timeshare arrangement could now be back in play. Both players logged 203 carries in 2021, and while there should be enough touches for the two to remain fantasy relevant, Williams' ceiling is nonetheless hampered by the continued presence of the capable Gordon. Of the two, Williams profiles as the upside play, but as long as his veteran counterpart is available, the 2021…read more
Published: Wed, Apr 27 at 8:21am by Rotowire.com
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Finishes rookie season strong
Williams rushed 12 times for 46 yards and brought in both targets for 18 yards in the Broncos' 28-24 loss to the Chiefs on Saturday.
Analysis: Given how well and evenly Williams and Melvin Gordon worked in tandem this season, it was fitting the two split carries right down the middle for the Broncos' final contest. The rookie bounced back well from a pair of atypically inefficient outings Week 16 and 17 where he'd gained just 42 yards on 21 carries, and Saturday's production put him just over the 900-yard mark (903) to close out his first NFL season. The UNC product also generated an impressive 43-316-3 line through the air, and with…read more
Published: Sat, Jan 8 at 5:52pm by Rotowire.com
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Cleared for Week 18
Williams (knee) does not carry an injury designation for Saturday's game against Kansas City after practicing fully Thursday, Aric DiLalla of the Broncos' official site reports.
Analysis: The same applies to Melvin Gordon (thumb/hip), which sets the stage for the duo to continue to share backfield duties in Denver's season finale. It's a timeshare that caps Williams' fantasy ceiling, but more often than not he's logged enough touches to help fantasy managers this season, and he'll square off this weekend against a Chiefs run defense that is allowing an average of 113.0 rushing yards per game to date.
Published: Thu, Jan 6 at 1:58pm by Rotowire.com
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Logs limited practice
Williams (knee) was listed as a limited practice participant Wednesday, Aric DiLalla of the Broncos' official site reports.
Analysis: Melvin Gordon (thumb/hip) was also limited, but at this stage, there's nothing to suggest that either back will miss Saturday's game against Kansas City, even if both players approach the weekend with an injury designation.
Published: Wed, Jan 5 at 3:29pm by Rotowire.com
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Reps capped due to knee issue
Williams (knee) was listed as a limited participant on Tuesday's estimated practice report, Aric DiLalla of the Broncos' official site reports.
Analysis: For the fourth week in a row, Williams is appearing on the injury report with a lingering knee issue, but head coach Vic Fangio hasn't suggested the rookie is at risk of missing Saturday's season finale against Kansas City. So long as Williams continues to practice in some capacity Wednesday and Thursday, he'll likely be deemed good to go for the Week 18 matchup. As has been the case all season, Williams is expected to once again work in a timeshare out of the backfield with Melvin Gordon…read more
Published: Tue, Jan 4 at 12:44pm by Rotowire.com
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Disappointing numbers Sunday
Williams carried the ball 14 times for 30 yards and caught his only target for two yards in Sunday's 34-13 loss to the Chargers.
Analysis: The rookie had reached 80 scrimmage yards or scored a touchdown, or both, in four straight games coming into Sunday, but the knee issue that limited Williams' practice participation during the week may have been a factor in his disappointing showing against one of the league's softer run defenses. He still has an outside chance at 1,000 rushing yards on the season, but he'll need 143 yards in a Week 18 clash with Kansas City to get there.
Published: Sun, Jan 2 at 8:11pm by Rotowire.com
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Active for Week 17
Williams (knee) is listed as active for Sunday's game against the Chargers, Aric DiLalla of the Broncos' official site reports.
Analysis: So is fellow running back Melvin Gordon (thumb/hip). As a result, the duo is in line to once again share backfield work Sunday, with a Week 17 bounce-back opportunity on tap for both players (who put up modest production last weekend versus the Raiders) against a Chargers defense that's allowing an average of 140.3 rushing yards per game to date.
Published: Sun, Jan 2 at 11:50am by Rotowire.com
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Expected to play Sunday
Williams (knee), who is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Chargers, is expected to play, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.
Analysis: Melvin Gordon (thumb/hip) is also expected to play, according to Schefter, so the duo looks set to split the workload in the backfield against the Chargers. Both players were limited participants in practice all week.
Published: Sat, Jan 1 at 10:29pm by Rotowire.com
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Listed questionable for Sunday
Williams (knee) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Chargers after practicing in a limited fashion this past week.
Analysis: Melvin Gordon (thumb/hip) was also a limited participant throughout the week and carries a questionable designation into Sunday, though both he and Williams appear at little risk of sitting out. Assuming both players are active, they would be in line to share carries in Week 17, with a bounce-back opportunity on tap against the Chargers' struggling run defense.
Published: Fri, Dec 31 at 3:07pm by Rotowire.com
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Remains limited Thursday
Williams (knee) was listed as a limited participant in Thursday's estimated practice.
Analysis: Denver didn't actually hold a workout Thursday after the team elected to cancel the session out of an abundance of caution due to increasing COVID-19-related concerns within the organization. Like backfield mate Melvin Gordon (thumb/hip), Williams went down as a limited participant on the official report for the second straight day, but clarity on the status of either player likely won't arrive until Denver reconvenes for practice Friday.
Published: Fri, Dec 31 at 6:33am by Rotowire.com
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Limited Wednesday
Williams (knee) was a limited participant in practice Wednesday, Aric DiLalla of the Broncos' official site reports.
Analysis: Fellow running back Melvin Gordon (thumb/hip) was also limited. There's little reason to believe either running back will sit out Sunday against the Chargers, though it will be worth checking back on both players' statuses as the week progresses. Williams and Gordon normally split carries, but if either were to sit, the other would become an even more enticing fantasy option Week 17 against a dreadful Chargers run defense that just got carved up for 149 yards and two touchdowns by Houston's Rex…read more
Published: Wed, Dec 29 at 2:34pm by Rotowire.com
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Salvages day with TD
Williams carried the ball seven times for 12 yards and a touchdown and caught both his targets for eight yards in Sunday's 17-13 loss to the Raiders.
Analysis: It was a rough day for the Broncos' running game in general, but at least Williams was able to bang home a one-yard TD just before halftime. Melvin Gordon, by contrast, wound up with a net of zero scrimmage yards. Williams is having a big finish to his rookie campaign, piling up 473 combined yards and five TDs in the last five games heading into a favorable Week 17 matchup against a vulnerable Chargers run defense.
Published: Sun, Dec 26 at 6:27pm by Rotowire.com
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Cleared to face Raiders
Williams (knee) has no injury designation for Sunday's game against the Raiders, Aric DiLalla of the Broncos' official site reports.
Analysis: Williams and Melvin Gordon (thumb/hip) both have been cleared to play after upgrading from limited practice participation Thursday to full sessions Friday. Their timeshare remains close to 50/50, with both taking double-digit touches on a regular basis.
Published: Fri, Dec 24 at 1:33pm by Rotowire.com
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Another limited session
Williams (knee) remained limited at practice Thursday, George Stoia III of The Denver Gazette reports.
Analysis: Meanwhile, Melvin Gordon (thumb/hip) also was limited Thursday. At this stage, we expect both players to be available for Sunday's game against the Raiders, but unless they practice fully Friday, official 'questionable' Week 16 injury designations could be in store for the duo for the second straight week.
Published: Thu, Dec 23 at 1:53pm by Rotowire.com
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Limited session Wednesday
Williams (knee) was listed as a limited practice participant Wednesday, Rachel Gossen of the Raiders' official site reports.
Analysis: In this past Sunday's loss to the Bengals, Williams played through a knee issue that had him listed as questionable heading into the contest. With that in mind, there's a solid chance his Wednesday limitations were maintenance-related. Meanwhile, Melvin Gordon (thumb/hip) logged a 'DNP' on Wednesday, but so far there's nothing to suggest that the duo won't be available for this weekend's game against the Raiders.
Published: Wed, Dec 22 at 4:24pm by Rotowire.com
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Productive in split backfield
Williams recorded 15 rushes for 72 yards in Sunday's 15-10 loss to the Bengals. He added four receptions for nine yards.
Analysis: Williams had another productive game as a rusher, averaging 4.8 yards per carry with big gains of 14 and 10 yards. Despite his explosiveness, the Broncos have continued to split the backfield evenly between he and Melvin Gordon. One area where Williams has gained extra usage is in the passing game, as he's now recorded at least three receptions in three of his last four games. All told, Williams has played particularly well of late, but there is little indication that the Broncos plan to turn…read more
Published: Sun, Dec 19 at 5:42pm by Rotowire.com
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Suiting up Week 15
Williams (knee) is active for Sunday's game against the Bengals, Aric DiLalla of the team's official site reports.
Analysis: The standout rookie running back was described Saturday as likely to play, and that prognosis has proven to be correct. Backfield mate Melvin Gordon (hip/thumb) is also active Sunday, leaving the duo to likely operate in their usual highly effective timeshare against a Bengals defense allowing an NFL-low 81.3 rushing yards per game on the road.
Published: Sun, Dec 19 at 11:42am by Rotowire.com
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Expected to play against Bengals
Williams (knee), who is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Bengals, is expected to play, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.
Analysis: He was unable to practice Thursday but was a limited participant Wednesday and Friday. Head coach Vic Fangio told reporters Friday that Williams isn't expected to have any limitations against the Bengals on Sunday. Melvin Gordon (thumb/hip) is also expected to be available Week 15, so the two running backs should operate in their usual timeshare out of the backfield.
Published: Sat, Dec 18 at 9:14pm by Rotowire.com
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Listed as questionable, expected to play
Williams (knee) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Bengals after returning to a limited practice Friday, Aric DiLalla of the Broncos' official site reports.
Analysis: Fellow running back Melvin Gordon (thumb/hip) is also listed as questionable for the contest after practicing in a limited fashion this past week, but it's worth noting that coach Vic Fangio previously told reporters Williams was "fine" and wouldn't have any limitations this weekend. That said, it will still be worth confirming the duo's availability in advance of Sunday's 4:05 ET kickoff, but assuming both backs are active, they'll continue to work in a backfield timeshare -- one that resulted…read more
Published: Fri, Dec 17 at 1:23pm by Rotowire.com
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Back at practice
Williams (knee) returned to practice Friday, Zac Stevens of TheDNVR.com reports.
Analysis: Though Williams was held out of practice Thursday, head coach Vic Fangio expects the running back to play Sunday against the Bengals. Friday's final injury report will reveal whether Williams and/or Melvin Gordon (thumb/hip) head into the weekend with a Week 15 injury designation.
Published: Fri, Dec 17 at 11:13am by Rotowire.com
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Misses practice, but likely to play
Williams (knee) was held out of practice Thursday, but head coach Vic Fangio expects him to play Sunday against the Bengals, Aric DiLalla of the Broncos' official site reports. "His leg just kind of swelled up a little bit, and so we're going to give him the day off," Fangio said of Williams.
Analysis: Williams was a limited participant in Wednesday's practice, so he'll presumably need to log a full session Friday in order to avoid a Week 15 injury designation. Though he didn't log any practice activity Thursday, he was present for the Broncos' workout, with Troy Renck of Denver 7 News noting that Williams was taking part in some conditioning work. Melvin Gordon (thumb/hip) was a limited participant in practices Wednesday and Thursday, so both of Denver's top two running backs could be at…read more
Published: Thu, Dec 16 at 1:39pm by Rotowire.com
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Limited by knee issue
Williams was listed as a limited practice participant Wednesday due to a knee injury, George Stoia III of The Denver Gazette reports.
Analysis: In addition to Williams, fellow running back Melvin Gordon (thumb/hip) was listed as a limited participant to begin Week 15 prep, which was fully expected after he emerged from Sunday's win over Detroit with a sprained thumb. In the case of Williams, his appearance on the injury report is more of a surprise, as the Broncos didn't disclose that he hurt his knee at any point during Week 14. His practice activity will bear monitoring over the next two days to gain a sense of his chances of playing…read more
Published: Wed, Dec 15 at 4:27pm by Rotowire.com
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Another huge performance
Williams carried the ball 15 times for 73 yards and a touchdown and caught one of two targets for 10 yards and another TD in Sunday's 38-10 win over the Lions.
Analysis: The rookie looked like he might be get another game as the undisputed lead back for Denver after Melvin Gordon suffered a hand injury early in the first quarter, but the veteran RB quickly returned to action and wound up scoring two TDs of his own while leading the Broncos in scrimmage yards. Williams' numbers were hardly disappointing though, as he opened the scoring with a five-yard run in the opening frame before hauling in his TD pass in the third quarter, giving him four touchdowns in the…read more
Published: Sun, Dec 12 at 7:14pm by Rotowire.com
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Excels as lead back
Williams rushed 23 times for 102 yards and corralled six of nine targets for 76 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's 22-9 loss to Kansas City.
Analysis: Melvin Gordon (hip) missed his first game of the season, opening the door for Williams to shine on the national stage. The 2021 second-round pick set a season high of 178 total yards while dominating the backfield touches (29 of 34). Williams has been a solid fantasy contributor while splitting time with Gordon this year, but he finally got to show the world that he can handle a lead-back role -- at least for one week. Gordon's status for next Sunday's matchup against the Lions is unclear at…read more
Published: Sun, Dec 5 at 8:49pm by Rotowire.com
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Primed for lead role
Broncos head coach Vic Fangio said he's confident in Williams' ability to handle a lead role out of the backfield Sunday in Kansas City while Melvin Gordon (hip) is listed as doubtful for the contest and not expected to play, George Stoia III of The Denver Gazette reports.
Analysis: Williams and Gordon have had a near-even split of the backfield snaps and touches through the Broncos' first 11 games of the season, but Week 13 will likely mark the first time either of the two gets a look in a featured role. At least on a per-touch basis, Williams (4.9 yards per carry, 7.1 yards per reception) has provided reason for excitement, and the prospect of him handling his largest role of the season should make him an appealing lineup option in most weekly season-long leagues. He'll…read more
Published: Fri, Dec 3 at 1:04pm by Rotowire.com
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Big effort in Sunday's win
Williams carried the ball 14 times for 54 yards and a touchdown and caught three of four targets for 57 yards in Sunday's 28-13 win over the Chargers.
Analysis: While Melvin Gordon led the Broncos in rushing, Williams was by far the more productive back, scoring his first rushing TD since Week 3 while leading Denver in receiving yards to top 100 scrimmage yards for the second time in the last three games. Williams will attempt to build on that momentum in a Week 13 clash with Kansas City.
Published: Sun, Nov 28 at 7:06pm by Rotowire.com
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Not much work in loss
Williams carried the ball eight times for 48 yards in Sunday's 30-13 loss to the Eagles. He also caught two of three targets for one yard.
Analysis: He did well with his totes, but the Broncos fell behind early and were forced to get away from their running game. Williams continues to split backfield touches equally with Melvin Gordon and the duo has produced almost identical yardage totals heading into the Broncos' Week 11 bye, but the veteran back has overshadowed the rookie with seven TDs to Williams' two.
Published: Sun, Nov 14 at 8:39pm by Rotowire.com
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Reaches century mark
Williams recorded 17 rushes for 111 yards in Sunday's 30-16 win over the Cowboys.
Analysis: Williams saw a career high in carries, which allowed him to top 100 yards on the ground for the first time. He was still out-touched by Melvin Gordon 23-17 and also was not involved in the receiving game. Even so, Williams recorded long runs of 30, 20 and 17 yards to make up the majority of his production. Williams has only two total touchdowns on the season, but he could be in for a more positive game script in a Week 10 matchup against Philadelphia.
Published: Sun, Nov 7 at 4:08pm by Rotowire.com
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Quiet in win
Williams rushed nine times for 35 yards and secured two of four targets for 13 yards in Sunday's 17-10 win over Washington.
Analysis: Williams continued to split rushing duties with Melvin Gordon, handling nine carries to Gordon's 10. It was Gordon, however, who managed to make the most of his opportunities, scoring once through the air and once on the ground. Fantasy managers hoping that the rookie would take over the Denver backfield by this point will have to wait, but it appears the Broncos are married to the idea of using both backs in a tandem. In the event of an injury to Gordon, Williams' fantasy value would…read more
Published: Tue, Nov 2 at 10:45am by Rotowire.com
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Finds end zone through air
Williams rushed four times for 20 yards and brought in six of seven targets for 32 yards and a touchdown in the Broncos' 17-14 loss to the Browns on Thursday night.
Analysis: Williams and Melvin Gordon combined for just 12 carries, but the rookie still found a way to make a fantasy impact with his 10-yard touchdown grab in the fourth quarter. Williams' reception total was also a career and team-high figure, and he now has multiple catches in five consecutive contests after opening his NFL career with a pair of one-reception tallies. Williams will look for more overall touches in a Week 8 home matchup against Washington a week from Sunday.
Published: Thu, Oct 21 at 8:53pm by Rotowire.com
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Splits backfield tasks again
Williams ran for 53 yards on 11 carries against Las Vegas on Sunday, adding three receptions for 15 yards on three targets.
Analysis: Williams provided Denver its biggest gain on the ground Sunday, producing a 30-yard carry that marked his third 20-yard carry on just 65 attempts in his young NFL career, but he once again almost evenly split the workload with veteran technical starter Melvin Gordon. As well as Williams has played through six games, the veteran Gordon has played fairly well in his own right, and Sunday he mostly matched Williams by producing 50 yards on 10 carries. The workload split between the two leaves them…read more
Published: Sun, Oct 17 at 6:10pm by Rotowire.com
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Totals 86 yards in loss
Williams rushed eight times for 61 yards and caught all three targets for 25 more yards in Sunday's 27-19 loss to the Steelers.
Analysis: Williams split touches with Melvin Gordon evenly (11 each), but the former outplayed his veteran counterpart in this contest. Neither back has really outshone the other on a consistent basis through five weeks, so a timeshare should continue as we progress through the year. Both Williams and Gordon may end up eating in Week 6 against the Raiders, who have surrendered 133.3 rushing yards per game this season.
Published: Sun, Oct 10 at 5:06pm by Rotowire.com
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Looks good with limited touches
Williams carried the ball seven times for 48 yards and caught all three of his targets for 11 yards in Sunday's 23-7 loss to the Ravens.
Analysis: The Denver running game had some success in the first half, and both Williams and Melvin Gordon finished the afternoon averaging better than six yards a carry, but when Teddy Bridgewater left the game with a concussion late in the second quarter, the whole offense stagnated. Williams came into Sunday with just a 3.5 YPC through his first three NFL games, however, and the rookie could slip back to that level in Week 5 against a tough Steelers run defense.
Published: Sun, Oct 3 at 7:19pm by Rotowire.com
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To continue splitting time Sunday
Williams will continue splitting time with Melvin Gordon (ribs/lower leg) in Sunday's home showdown against the Ravens after the latter was confirmed active for the Week 4 contest.
Analysis: The rookie appeared to have a chance at true lead-back status at one point during the practice week with Gordon managing multiple injuries, but the veteran trended in the right direction in subsequent days and now is officially available for the contest. Williams still could enjoy a solid complementary workload, however, considering he's logged double-digit carries in all three games thus far.
Published: Sun, Oct 3 at 12:06pm by Rotowire.com
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Records first touchdown
Williams carried the ball 12 times for 29 yards in Sunday's Week 3 win over the Jets. He added three receptions on four targets for 33 yards.
Analysis: Williams gave way to Melvin Gordon as the primary rusher, as Gordon commanded 18 carries. However, the pair continued to get work within the same drive and also alternated working as the primary back. Williams recorded the first touchdown of his career from one yard out early in the first quarter, and he then began the team's next drive with a 17-yard reception and 14-yard rush. He was relatively quiet otherwise, but his involvement in the passing game was a positive change as he entered the…read more
Published: Sun, Sep 26 at 9:06pm by Rotowire.com
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Works efficiently in Week 2
Williams recorded 13 rushing attempts for 64 yards in Sunday's Week 2 win over the Jaguars. He added one reception for 10 yards.
Analysis: Williams ended the game with the same number of rushes as Melvin Gordon, and the pair often alternated plays on the same drive. Despite identical workloads on the ground, Williams out-gained Gordon by 33 yards -- though Gordon was far more effective as a receiver. Williams managed to record double-digit yardage on three of his 13 carries, the longest of which went for 16 yards. Through two weeks, Williams seems to be the more consistently effective rusher compared to Gordon. Though it will…read more
Published: Sun, Sep 19 at 4:50pm by Rotowire.com
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Gets plenty of work
Williams recorded 14 rushes for 45 yards in Sunday's Week 1 win over the Giants. He added one reception for -4 yards.
Analysis: Williams didn't have an impressive regular-season debut based on the box score. However, he mixed in with Melvin Gordon beginning on the team's first offensive possession and ultimately out-carried the veteran 14-11. The Broncos' coaching staff suggested that Williams would play in all situations and game scripts leading up to the contest, and his usage Sunday supported that statement. Williams will now look to improve from a statistical standpoint in a Week 2 matchup against the Jaguars.
Published: Sun, Sep 12 at 6:43pm by Rotowire.com
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Fully trusted by coaching staff
Coach Vic Fangio expressed confidence in Williams on Monday, saying, "We're not at all against playing him in any situation, in any time of the game," Aric DiLalla of the Broncos' official site reports.
Analysis: It's a strong early statement in favor of the rookie second-round pick, who apparently was able to earn the trust of the coaching staff during training camp and the preseason. Williams is expected to work in tandem with veteran Melvin Gordon out of the backfield for the Broncos this season, and it's a good early sign for Williams that he's already seemingly entrenched in his role to open the campaign.
Published: Mon, Sep 6 at 4:41pm by Rotowire.com
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DNP not injury-related
Coach Vic Fangio said Williams was "a healthy scratch" for Saturday's preseason win against the Rams, George Stoia III of The Denver Gazette reports.
Analysis: Fangio aimed to feature fellow top running back Melvin Gordon after the veteran sat out the first two preseason contests. And Gordon accumulated 35 yards on five rushes and four yards on his only target across three drives. Meanwhile, Williams ends his first exhibition season with 12 carries for 49 yards and one catch (on two targets) for five yards in two appearances. Gordon and Williams, a rookie second-rounder, are expected to work in tandem out of the Broncos backfield this season, with the…read more
Published: Sat, Aug 28 at 9:45pm by Rotowire.com
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Squanders shot at TD
Williams rushed seven times for 20 yards and secured one of two targets for five yards in the Broncos' 30-3 preseason win over the Seahawks on Saturday night. He also fumbled into the end zone, where it was recovered by offensive lineman Dalton Risner for a touchdown.
Analysis: The rookie saw the opportunity for his first rushing score as a pro slip through his fingers for the second straight game, as he'd also had a touchdown nullified by penalty in last Saturday's exhibition opener against the Vikings. Williams opened the same drive that culminated with his fumble by ripping off his two most impressive runs of the night, as he rattled off eight- and six-yard carries off left end. The North Carolina product already has shown a propensity for solid chunk gains over…read more
Published: Sat, Aug 21 at 10:26pm by Rotowire.com
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Handles five carries
Williams carried the ball five times for 29 yards in Saturday's preseason game against the Vikings.
Analysis: Williams was the first Broncos back on the field in the absence of Melvin Gordon (groin). He impressed immediately, ripping off gains of 11 and 13 yards with his first two carries. Williams also found the end zone on a rush later in that same drive but the score was nullified by a holding penalty. Williams figures to split carries with Gordon to begin the season, though he's gaining valuable reps in Gordon's absence for the time being.
Published: Sat, Aug 14 at 6:23pm by Rotowire.com
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Signs rookie deal
Williams signed his rookie contract with the Broncos on Saturday.
Analysis: With the formality now complete, the 2021 second-round pick is thus set to showcase his skillset during Denver's training camp. While there's still plenty of ambiguity regarding Williams' week-to-week role ahead of his rookie campaign, it seems all but certain a tandem of Melvin Gordon and Williams will dominate the backfield touches provided both stay healthy.
Published: Sat, Jul 24 at 8:37am by Rotowire.com
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Could supplant Gordon
Williams is a candidate to lead the Broncos in both rushing attempts and yards this coming season, according to Ryan O'Halloran of the Denver Post.
Analysis: Assuming returning starter Melvin Gordon turns in a productive training camp, O'Halloran envisions a scenario in which Gordon tends to take Denver's "first snap/series of the game" early on this season, while the team "eases Williams into a bigger role each week." With that in mind, fantasy managers who invest in the rookie may need to exercise a degree of patience out of the gate, but as the 2021 campaign unfolds, Williams' profile in the offense -- and within the looming time-share -- figures…read more
Published: Tue, Jul 6 at 10:53am by Rotowire.com
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