Broncos RB Javonte Williams suffers season-ending ACL tear
Denver Broncos second-year running back Javonte Williams suffered a season-ending right ACL tear in a 32-23 loss against the Las Vegas Raiders, per NFL Network insider Tom Pelissero.
Willams' injury is a gut-punch to the Broncos' offense. Through four games, he had 207 yards rushing (4.3 yards per carry) and 77 yards receiving. Last season he was second in the NFL in broken tackles, per Pro Football Focus.
Running back Melvin Gordon III could step into the starting role, and Mike Boone could serve as the primary backup. Gordon III has fumbled four times this season, including a 68-yard scoop-and-score against the Raiders. Boone has started two games in five seasons.
The NFL Network's Ian Rapoport wrote that Williams' MRI also revealed a torn LCL, which could mean a lengthy rehab. (For more on LCL injuries click here.)
The Broncos might have to dip into the free-agent pool or make a trade to fortify depth at the position.
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