Will Broncos' Javonte Williams Be "Ready" for Week 1?

Denver’s new head coach Sean Payton recently provided an optimistic projection of Javonte Williams’ recovery process, saying the team expects that the 23-year-old running back will be ready for the start of training camp in late July.

Williams is recovering from a multi-ligament tear and is unlikely to be fully healthy until at least the midpoint of the upcoming season, according to the Pro Football Docs.

Given the severity of his injury and his running style, it would be great news if he can avoid the physically unable to perform list at the start of the season.

While it's possible he will be available for work at training camp in late July, the Pro Football Docs are not confident he will be ready and effective in Week 1.

Here's video of his injury from Week 4 last season:

While Payton’s optimism for his young running back is commendable, the team did not hesitate to bolster its running back depth with the addition of Samaje Perine on a two-year, $7.5 million deal.

Perine reportedly rejected a similar offer from the Bengals due to the prospect of more work in Denver.

The former Bengals dual-threat will be in line for increased early season work as Williams works his way back to 100%, according to the Pro Football Docs.

Their running back room also includes Tony Jones Jr., who played sparingly under Payton in New Orleans.

While no two knee injuries and recovery is the same, Williams’ recovery timeline will likely share similarities with J.K. Dobbins’ initial recovery path during last season with the Ravens.

Dobbins suffered his multi-ligament tear in August 2021 and missed the entire 2021 season. He returned in Week 3 last year, but lasted just four games before requiring a knee scope procedure to address residual swelling and fluid in his left knee.

He finished the season with 92 carries for 520 yards and 2 touchdowns while playing in 8 games.

If Williams’ ramp-up process is handled properly, he will likely be able to avoid a second procedure. However, that means limiting his touches and practice reps early in the season.

The former Tarheel running back had not missed a game in his NFL career prior to his Week 4 right knee multi-ligament tear.

Denver Broncos Super Bowl LVIII Odds

Denver is +4500 to win the Super Bowl next season and +550 to win the AFC West, according to FanDuel Sportsbook.

Williams is +7000 to win Comeback Player of the Year.

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