UNC Football: Javonte Williams climbing up 2021 NFL Draft Boards

UNC Football running back Javonte Williams is slowly starting to climb up 2021 NFL Draft boards with his recent play

One of the most underrated players in all of college football plays in Chapel Hill for the UNC Football program. For whatever reason, Javonte Williams doesn’t receive the national recognition as other players at his position or that side of the football.

Through the first seven games of the season, Williams ranks sixth in rushing yards (767), is tied for first in touchdowns (14) and has the highest percentage of runs that results in 10-plus yards (28%). Yet, Williams hasn’t received s much national recognition as he should and isn’t even in the Heisman consideration.

But that could change very soon.

NFL draft analysts are starting to take notice of Williams as we head into Week 11, moving him up on their 2021 NFL Draft boards. Earlier in the week, ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. listed Williams as his No. 3 running back prospect behind only Clemson’s Travis Etienne and Alabama’s Najee Harris. Pretty impressive stuff.

The Draft Network also moved up Williams on their board as the No. 76 overall prospect and the No. 4 running back in the nation. Here is part of the Draft Network’s scouting report on the talented junior:

"Javonte Williams aligns at RB in the Tar Heel offense. He’s a very good athlete and demonstrates good suddenness to go the distance when he’s out in space. He demonstrates the ability to make one cut and get upfield, showing instinctive feel, vision and good footwork as a runner. Strong runner who runs with excellent lower body strength. He is explosive when he gets to the second level and negates a defenders angle with speed. Initial defenders have a tough time bringing him down as he runs with passion and is proficient at breaking tackles."

While Williams isn’t getting the Heisman hype, it’s nice to see that scouts are seeing the NFL potential in him, especially when he’s splitting carries with teammate Michael Carter in the backfield.

Williams still has four regular season games plus a likely bowl game to improve his stock and potentially get into the Heisman race. Don’t be shocked if he does too, he’s been very consistent all season long and should end up in the Top 5 in most major rushing stat categories this year.

For more on Williams and other UNC Football players, please check back with Keeping It Heel.