UNC Football: Javonte Williams likely starting running back for Broncos

With Melvin Gordon most likely not returning to Denver, former UNC football standout Javonte Williams is expected to be the Broncos starting running back.

It is time to unleash Javonte Williams in Denver.

With the NFL free-agent negotiation period beginning, reports surfaced that fellow running back Melvin Gordon is unlikely to return to the Broncos. After the former UNC football standout shared the workload with the veteran Gordon during his rookie season, it now looks as if Williams is about to take on a bigger role in the team’s offense.

Given what he accomplished as a rookie, it makes a ton of sense for the Broncos to rely on him more moving forward.

Williams ranked third among all rookies with his 903 rushing yards. He also was one of the more productive rookie tailbacks in the passing game as well, as he recorded 43 receptions for an additional 316 yards.

Needless to say, his 1,219 yards from scrimmage and total touchdowns was an impressive way for the former Tar Heel to make a great early impression at the next level.

Faced with competing in a very competitive AFC West Division, the Broncos have already made some huge moves this offseason. Their biggest move so far came via a trade to acquire former Super Bowl champion Russell Wilson from the Seattle Seahawks to lead the team’s offensive attack.

Based on his Twitter likes, it appears that the 9-time Pro Bowler is excited to play alongside his new running back weapon:

The Denver Broncos are in “win-now mode,” and will most certainly rely on Javonte Williams heavily to help get them where they want to go.

There’s no doubt that the former UNC football standout is ready for this bigger challenge in year two of his NFL career.

Follow us @KeepingItHeel on Twitter and like our fan page on Facebook for continued coverage of UNC football news, views, recruiting, and former Tar Heels updates.