Javonte Williams out for season with torn ACL
Denver Broncos running back Javonte Williams will miss the remainder of the season after suffering a torn ACL in Sunday's loss to the Las Vegas Raiders, head coach Nathaniel Hackett confirmed Monday.
An MRI also revealed Williams has a torn LCL and posterior lateral corner, sources told Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.
Williams, who is Denver's leading rusher and second on the Broncos in catches, was carted off on the first play of the third quarter. The Broncos were reportedly fearful the 22-year-old was facing a major injury.
The 2021 second-round pick was widely viewed as a potential breakout candidate after a strong rookie season. Williams had 903 rushing yards, 316 receiving yards, and seven total touchdowns while splitting time with Melvin Gordon last year.
Williams had 204 rushing yards and 76 receiving yards on 16 catches this season.
The veteran Gordon will now take the lead role in Denver, while Mike Boone will act as the primary backup. Gordon has struggled with turnovers, fumbling for the fourth time this season in the second quarter against the Raiders.
The Broncos are also signing running back Latavius Murray off the New Orleans Saints' practice squad, a source told NFL Network's Tom Pelissero.
Murray played for the Saints on Sunday against the Minnesota Vikings in London, racking up 57 yards and one touchdown on 11 carries.