Javonte Williams Suffers Torn ACL and MCL, Out For Remainder of 2022 Season
Denver Broncos running back Javonte Williams will miss the remainder of the 2022 NFL Season with a torn ACL and MCL, per Ian Rapoport.
The 2021 second round pick was looking to follow up a solid rookie season while sharing snaps with veteran Melvin Gordon, but unfortunately ends the season in devastating fashion with a very significant injury.
Sports medicine doctor Brian Sutterer says that although the inclusion of a torn LCL and posterior lateral corner increases the complexity of the injury, it doesn’t necessarily mean that the recovery will take longer than the average 12 month timetable.
Melvin Gordon most likely will become the lead back in Denver, although he has struggled with ball security early this season as he has four fumbles on 45 touches (37 carries and eight receptions). Mike Boone is also on the Broncos roster, so I would expect Denver to work on adding some extra depth either through free agency or via trade to help replace Javonte Williams.
Williams was drafted in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft, 35th overall, and during him time in college he and Michael Carter formed a dominant two headed rushing attack, and Sam Howell was the beneficiary of that. Through the 2022 season, Williams forced 16 missed tackles on 63 touches, and only had one drop on 21 targets through the air. Williams showcased good explosion with the Broncos this season as well, with seven carries of over 10 yards.
I’m not sure how confident the Broncos are with what they have in Melvin Gordon, but given his four fumbles this season it’s reasonable for them to be concerned. They have Mike Boone as the only other running back listed on the team’s roster, so a move will almost certainly be made.
