Arkansas' Jonathan Williams to miss 'extended period of time' with foot injury

Arkansas senior running back Jonathan Williams will miss an extended period of time during the 2015 season after suffering a foot injury during Saturday's scrimmage, head coach Bret Bielema announced Sunday.

The injury will require surgery, but he is expected to make a full recovery.

"I have no doubt that Jonathan will come back stronger than ever. Anyone that knows Jonathan Williams knows this is just another opportunity for him to prove the man of character and substance that he really is," Bielema said in a statement.

"It's an unfortunate injury to a great young man, but we are in the process of gathering as much information as possible. There are short and long term impacts of how he proceeds and we want to make sure he does what's best for him and his family, and his career beyond Arkansas."

With 2,321 career rushing yards, Williams is the No. 10 all-time leading rusher in the history of the program. His 5.72 yards per carry career average ranks sixth all-time in program history.

"This is no doubt a tough moment, but I know through my faith and hard work that I will make a full recovery," Williams said in a statement.

Williams ran for 1,190 yards and 12 touchdowns in 2014.

Junior running back Alex Collins, who ran for 1,026 yards and four scores in 2013 and 1,100 yards with 12 touchdowns in 2014, figures to carry a heavier workload out of the backfield while Williams is out.