Report: Broncos RB Javonte Williams Done for Season with Torn ACL

Williams has a "long road back."

The Denver Broncos' worst fears were realized Monday when an MRI revealed a torn ACL for starting running back Javonte Williams, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported.

Williams also sustained a torn LCL and damage to his posterior lateral corner amid Sunday's 32-23 loss to the Raiders — "a significant injury and a long road back," per Rapoport.

Oh boy, multi-ligament knee injuries are devastating. Research shows RTP rate is 64% for NFL players, but return to preinjury levels is just 30% for those suffering MLKI. https://t.co/csXysvDdWg

— Mario Pilato (@mario_pilato) October 3, 2022

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An offensive bedrock, Williams was injured on the opening series of the third quarter, a run play blown up by Raiders defenseman Maxx Crosby. He was unable to put any weight on his leg before being carted to the locker room, where reporters later observed him on crutches.

Williams finished the game having converted 10 carries into 28 yards. He will end his sophomore NFL campaign as (for now) the Broncos' leading rusher, with 204 rushing yards on 47 totes. His 16 receptions currently rank second on the team behind only leading receiver Courtland Sutton (24).

Backup RBs Melvin Gordon and Mike Boone totaled 48 ground yards in Williams' absence. Gordon also lost a fumble — his fourth in as many contests — that was returned for a touchdown.

With a short turnaround ahead of Thursday Night Football, Gordon and Boone are slated for the lion's share of work against the Indianapolis Colts. Denver, too, likely will elevate RB Devine Ozigbo from the practice squad to provide additional backfield depth.

Williams, under contract through 2024, is a candidate to begin next season on the Physically Unable to Perform list, given both the timing and severity of his injury.

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