Denver Broncos Expect Injured Star Running Back to be Ready for Training Camp

The Denver Broncos sounded an optimistic note on running back Javonte Williams on Saturday. Speaking to the media earlier today, head coach Sean Payton revealed the third-year back was progressing well in his rehab and had a chance to avoid the players unable to perform list.

Payton said expect Javonte Williams to be ready for training camp. “His rehab is going well. A good chance he’s ready. Hopefully might not start on PUP” #Denver7 #Broncos
— Troy Renck (@TroyRenck) May 13, 2023

Williams entered the league as the Broncos' 35th overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft. He delivered a solid rookie season, totalling 1219 yards from scrimmage with solid marks in yards per carry (4.4) and yards per target (6.0).

Following that impressive performance, Williams tore his ACL, LCL, and posterolateral ligament in Week 4 of the 2022 season in a Week 4 matchup with the Los Vegas Raiders. He ended his sophomore season with 280 yards from scrimmage on 63 touches.

Given the severity of his injury, Williams' recovery and timeline are great news for a Broncos team looking to bounce back from a truly disastrous 2022. After finishing 32nd in points scored, the Broncos have made a concerted effort to rebuild their offense, from hiring Sean Payton to adding offensive linemen Mike McGlinchey and Ben Powers. A healthy season from Williams could go a long way toward bringing balance back to a last season's league-worst offense.