Javonte Williams caught steam during the predraft cycle in the lead up to the 2021 NFL Draft and some believe he's the best running back prospect in this draft class. Rookie talent always eventually shoots up ADP and Williams won't be any different unless he gets hurt in camp or the preseason. If you take a look at his ADP in May it's bound to be later than you'll see now and then finally at the end of August. We will keep you updated with his ADP and nuggets from his training camp and preseason so you can make the most informed decision on Williams when he's on the board and you're on the clock.
Below, we'll break down Williams' outlook, changes in his ADP, where he's going in mock drafts, training camp/preseason updates (when the time comes) and more.
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2021 Outlook
Javonte Williams is set to be among the most popular rookies taken in Fantasy drafts. Built like a linebacker, the North Carolina product is a strong, violent runner with good burst, balance, and very quick cuts. He also has very good hands and is as close as a rookie can be to being an effective pass blocker. As part of a two-back committee with the Tar Heels, Williams rumbled for 19 touchdowns (along with three more through the air) and over 1,400 total yards. His experience sharing touches will help him deal with Melvin Gordon in 2021. If you draft Williams (21 years old), you're hoping Gordon (28) fades sooner than later, leaving Williams as the primary back. In a game where drafting for upside matters, Williams' potential in this offense cannot be ignored, even if he'll never be a workhorse with 20 touches regularly.
Eager seasonal Fantasy drafters might find themselves reaching for Williams by the end of Round 6, while others would pleasantly take him by the end of Round 7. Taking him ahead of Gordon isn't a big deal. Williams will definitely be a Round 5 or 6 choice in Dynasty start-ups and keeper leagues, and bank on him getting nabbed between sixth and ninth overall in rookie-only formats. (Dave Richard)
If you're looking to deep diver into Williams' value in Dynasty and keeper leagues, SportsLine's Jacob Gibbs has you covered here.
Changes in ADP
*All ADP data is courtesy of FantasyFootballCalculator.com and for half-point PPR scoring.
Williams hasn't seen his ADP move much so far this preseason.
CBS Mock Draft position
8/18 half-PPR 12-team: Round 6, No. 65 overall
8/12 half-PPR 10-team: Round 8, No. 74 overall
8/6 PPR Superflex mock: Round 7, No. 78 overall
8/3 non-PPR mock: Round 5, No. 49 overall
7/28 full-point PPR mock: Round 6, No. 61 overall
7/20 half-PPR mock: Round 6, No. 64 overall
7/7 Superflex mock: Round 8, No. 96 overall
6/16 full-PPR mock: Round 6, No. 72 overall
6/9 Superflex mock: Round 8, No. 96 overall
Training camp/preseason updates
8/18: Williams has been the benefactor of a minor Melvin Gordon groin injury. From Chris Towers' newsletter: "Melvin Gordon has a groin injury -- That's why Gordon wasn't active for the first game of the preseason against the Vikings Saturday, though I'm sure a chance to see Javonte Williams with the first team for an extended stretch was a nice side effect. It doesn't sound like the groin injury is expected to be an issue for Gordon, but the Broncos know what they have in him, so he doesn't have much to prove. He figures to split time with Williams early on, but could cede more and more playing time as the season goes on. He's a decent RB3 target if you need an early-season fill in, but his value may have an expiration date. "
