UNC Football: Javonte Williams Named Broncos Starting Running Back
The former UNC football star is the earliest Tar Heel running back selected since Don McCauley was drafted with the 22nd pick of the 1972 NFL Draft.
On Tuesday, the Denver Broncos released their first unofficial depth chart, as former UNC football standout Javonte Williams was listed as the starting running back. Williams beat out veteran Melvin Gordon, who he split snaps with out of the backfield as a rookie.
Javonte Williams is listed as the Broncos' starting RB, with Melvin Gordon as his backup, on the Broncos' first unofficial depth chart.
— Zac Stevens (@ZacStevensDNVR) August 10, 2022
In his inaugural season in the Mile High City, the Wallace, NC native was a threat out of the Denver backfield. Williams tallied 903 yards and four touchdowns on 203 carries (4.4 YPC), while hauling in 43 passes for 316 yards and three touchdowns.
The Denver Broncos selected Williams in the second round with the 35th overall pick of the 2021 NFL Draft, as the second running back drafted behind Alabama’s Najee Harris.
Like senior tailback Michael Carter, Williams declared for the NFL Draft after a successful three-year career in Chapel Hill.
Williams’ name is etched in the UNC football record books, highlighting his legendary career as a Tar Heel. The former Second Team All-American finished his collegiate career as the program record-holder for single-season touchdowns (22) and points scored in a season with 132. Williams’ 22 total touchdowns led the Atlantic Coast Conference, having his 75 missed touchdowns ranked first in all of college football.
In his final game in argyle, Williams was a key contributor in the best offensive game in North Carolina history, when the Tar Heels combined for 778 yards in a 62-26 victory at No. 10 Miami. He recorded 236 yards and three touchdowns on the ground, combining for 544 rushing yards with Michael Carter, an NCAA record by a duo.
The Broncos’ offense is much improved from last year’s 7-10 finish, adding future Hall of Famer Russell Wilson and a healthy Jerry Jeudy, who missed seven games.
With the additions of Davante Adams and Wilson, the AFC West is one of the strongest divisions in football. Williams and company will battle the daunting Chargers’ defense and compete against three of the best offenses in the NFL.
If Wilson and Williams can elevate the Denver offense, the Broncos could find themselves in the hunt for not only a playoff spot, but a chance to take home a divisional crown.
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