After 12 weeks of a brutal timeshare with Melvin Gordon, it’s finally Javonte Williams week. Entering Saturday, Gordon is listed as doubtful with a hip injury and as a result, Williams will be given full workhorse duties against the Chiefs on Sunday Night Football.
Arguably the most physical running back in the league, Williams has gashed defenses to the tune of 568 and two touchdowns on only 117 carries. He’s also registered 27 receptions for 193 yards and another score through the air. Additionally, the beast has forced 42 missed tackles (second to only Jonathan Taylor) on those 117 carries and has pounded defenses to an average of 3.57 yards after contact per attempt, per PFF.
“He reminds me a little bit of probably the best back I’ve been with on a team,” Vic Fangio said of the rookie running back. “I’m not going to say he’s there yet, but Edgerrin James. He kind of runs a little bit [and is a] complete player as Edgerrin.”
Last week against the Chargers, Williams totaled 111 yards and a score — which happened to be his best outing of the season. He showed off his three-down skill-set with 14 carries for 52 yards and three receptions for 57 yards. Williams has totaled over 100 yards in two of his last three games.
In this week’s game against the Chiefs where the Broncos will likely be trailing, Williams should see a number of targets and touches. It shouldn’t surprise anyone if the rookie saw over 20 touches against a defense that ranks 28th in yards per carry against opposing running backs.
Although the Chiefs’ defense has improved over the last few weeks, the team has allowed at least 12 fantasy points to running backs in eight of their last nine outings.
“He’s just a really good player,” described Fangio. “He’s a rookie by classification, but not by play and demeanor and professionalism. He doesn’t act like a rookie at all. The guy is really good.”
It’s safe to say The Wolf is high on the rookie. Williams comes in at RB11 (+7 vs ECR) on his Week 13 Fantasy Rankings.
