Denver Broncos running back Javonte Williams returned remarkably quickly from a serious knee injury this offseason and he was ready to go in Week 1.
Williams has recovered from the torn ACL and LCL injuries he suffered in 2022, but there’s a difference between return to play and return to performance. In five games this season, Williams is yet to top 52 yards and he has averaged more than four yards per carry just once.
Last week was a positive sign, though, as Williams averaged 5.2 yards per tote while looking like his old self.
“I think so,” Payton said earlier this week when asked if Williams is returning to his pre-injury form. “I know there’s a confidence level he has in his knee, and he feels that strength.
“The experts will tell you that it continues to get stronger even in Year 2. Then finally somewhere after two years, it’s at that point where — I don’t want to say it’s 100 percent, but certainly, we’re pleased with his progress and the way he’s running.”
As Payton noted, Williams might not completely return to his pre-injury form until 2024, but he seems to be getting more confident as the 2023 season goes on. In the coming weeks, Williams’ workload could increase and with increased opportunities, the talented running back could see his production go up as well.
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