Javonte Williams injury could derail Russell Wilson’s first Broncos season

The Denver Broncos 2022 season has not gotten off to the start that many have envisioned, and they may have already lost running back Javonte Williams long-term.

The Denver Broncos were expected to be the offensive juggernaut to match the Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC West. That has yet to transpire through the first four weeks of the season, even with Russell Wilson as their starting quarterback. Now, their offense could be without a key player for a significant period of time.

During the team’s Week 4 game against the Las Vegas Raiders, running back Javonte Williams had to be carted to the locker room after being slow to get up following a tackle for a loss by Maxx Crosby. After the game, Williams was spotted on crutches by members of the media.

According to NFL Network national NFL insider Ian Rapoport, Williams is believed to have suffered a serious knee injury, and that there is not much optimism ahead of his scheduled MRI on Monday.

Broncos: Javonte Williams reportedly believed to have suffered serious knee injury

This is not good news for the Broncos offense. This year, Williams ran for 204 yards on 47 carries, while catching 16 passes for 76 yards.

With Williams sidelined, that means Melvin Gordon will likely get the majority of the offensive snaps. The thing is, Gordon has had a serious fumbling issue this year. In fact, Gordon fumbled the ball three times, including once in Week 4 against the Raiders, which happened to be returned by cornerback Amik Robertson for a touchdown.

The Broncos will wait for an exact diagnosis for an injury and a timeline. However long Williams is out, the offense will miss him tremendously.