NBC Sports fantasy analyst: Denver's Javonte Williams in 'top-five running back conversation'

The Broncos have not explained how they will allocate carries to running backs Javonte Williams and Melvin Gordon III. The lack of clarity is driving fantasy football owners crazy, but NBC Sports fantasy football analyst Matthew Berry thinks Williams is the clear answer. 

“I think he’s in that top-five running back conversation, there’s no question about it,” said Berry in a video posted to NBC Sports’ website. “They do want Williams to be the guy, and he's the more explosive player at this part of their career.”

According to ESPN’s Field Yates, Williams led the league in broken tackles last season. He finished third among rookies in total rushing yards with 903. With Williams entering his second year, Gordon III has conceded he might be the second choice. 

“I think they want Vonte to be 'that guy',” Gordon said recently, per ESPN. 

In April, Gordon III turned 29, old for a running back. He also faces competition from Mike Boone, who has emerged as another reliable option. 

Broncos head coach Nathaniel Hackett faced a similar dilemma as an offensive coordinator in Green Bay when he had Aaron Jones and Jamaal Williams. Jones became the feature back.

Williams has impressed the Broncos' most important player, perhaps giving him an edge in the competition.

“When I turn on the film and watch Javonte, I am like, 'Wow, this guy is amazing, he’s special,'" QB Russell Wilson said recently, per ESPN.