Should I Start Javonte Williams In Week 1? Fantasy Football Outlook

Denver Broncos running back Javonte Williams was the 35th overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft. Williams had a productive college career, totaling 366 rushing attempts for 2,297 yards and 29 touchdowns. He also had 50 receptions for 539 receiving yards and four touchdowns at North Carolina.

The former Tar Heel had a solid rookie season, totaling 203 rushing attempts for 903 yards and four touchdowns. He also totaled 43 receptions on 53 targets for 316 receiving yards and three touchdowns that year.

Williams had high fantasy expectations last season. He started the year playing well, totaling 47 rushing attempts for 204 yards. The second-year running back also had 16 receptions on 22 targets for 76 receiving yards last year. Unfortunately, Williams suffered a knee injury in Week 4, ending his season.

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Should I Start Javonte Williams In Week 1?

Many believed the former North Carolina star would miss the first few games this season recovering from the knee injury. Instead, Williams played in the preseason and looked healthy. However, should fantasy players start him in Week 1?

Reportedly, he could have a lesser role to start the year. Williams played well in the preseason but might need a few weeks to get up to full game speed and find a rhythm.

Furthermore, Samaje Perine will have a significant role on offense this season. The Broncos will use both running backs in Week 1, but Williams might not have much of a role against the Las Vegas Raiders.

Which Running Back Off The Waiver Could I Add Last Minute?

Hopefully, fantasy players have a starting-caliber replacement option on their bench for Week 1. However, fantasy players can also find a solid option on the waiver wire.

Tank Bigsby is rostered in only 27.7% of ESPN leagues. Yet, the rookie running back has under-the-radar fantasy value this week. The former Auburn star was outstanding during the preseason, totaling 28 rushing attempts for 159 yards. Furthermore, he was explosive in the run game.

Meanwhile, the Jaguars face the Indianapolis Colts in Week 1. Last year, the Colts gave up 23.1 half-point PPR fantasy points per game to running backs, the seventh-most in the NFL.

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