Accurately evaluating rookie running backs like Javonte Williams is one of the hardest tasks in fantasy football. On the one hand, Denver clearly has a plan for the North Carolina product, and they clearly want him to see the field early and often. On the other hand, rookies usually need a bit of time before they\u2019re ready for NFL action, especially when there is a proven player already on the depth chart. Given the wide range of outcomes, what should fantasy football owners expect out of Javonte Williams in 2021?<\/p>\n
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Before we look at his situation, we first need to look at Williams as an NFL prospect. Running back is a plug-and-play position, but a player needs to be talented in order to actually make it onto the field in the first place. The Denver Broncos selected Williams with the 35th<\/sup> pick in the NFL Draft, but they traded up to do so. When factoring in the trade cost, Denver gave up essentially the equivalent value of a late first-round pick in order to secure Williams\u2019 services.<\/p>\n Williams has the draft capital to succeed at the NFL level, but that\u2019s not always enough. Fortunately, the running back also happened to be fantastic in college, as both the film and analytics communities believe he has what it takes to succeed at the NFL level. Pro Football Focus grades tell us that Williams was one of the best in the league as both a runner and a receiver, while the numbers tell us<\/a> that he is a fantastic athlete and hit all the major production thresholds that tend to predict NFL success.<\/p>\n PFF has charted college players since 2016. Javonte Williams all-time percentiles*<\/p>\n 2020 2019 *Among 1,033 50+ carry & 10+ target seasons<\/p>\n — Kevin Cole (@KevinCole___) February 24, 2021<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n
Rushing grade: 100
Forced missed tackle rate: 100
Receiving grade: 93<\/p>\n
Rushing grade: 92
Forced missed tackle rate: 97
Receiving grade: 99<\/p>\n