HC Sean Payton provides huge injury update on Broncos RB

Denver Broncos running back Javonte Williams will return to the field sooner rather than later.

During a Thursday news conference, Denver head coach Sean Payton confirmed Williams — who suffered a season-ending ACL/LCL tear in early in the 2022 season — has been cleared for contact and will play in the preseason.

"He'll get reps," Payton said. "It may be wait until Week 2. We haven't gone through the outline of the plays yet. I like how he's progressing."

Payton feeling comfortable enough to play Williams is a great sign for the Broncos because it signals that he'll be ready for the regular season. 

Throughout the offseason, the recovery of the 23-year-old was uncertain given the severity of the injury.

Williams should give the Broncos offense the spark it needs after it finished last in scoring last season. The North Carolina product showed promise in his rookie season, rushing for 903 yards on 203 attempts in 17 games, which earned him a PFWA All-Rookie nod. In 2022, Williams averaged 51 rushing yards per game in four contests before his injury.

Despite the positive update, letting the RB play in the preseason carries risk. Denver can't afford to lose another offensive starter after wide receiver Tim Patrick suffered a season-ending Achilles tear on Monday.
Outside of Williams, the Broncos are thin at RB. Backup Samaje Perine only rushed for 394 yards on 95 carries in 16 games with the Bengals last season. Nevertheless, Payton probably wants Williams to regain his strength, so he's willing to take the risk.

Plus, the Broncos ground game struggled without Williams. It finished 21st in rushing yards last season. Denver could re-establish a solid rushing attack if he removes rust in preseason.