As we inch toward the new season, the ever-changing NFL landscape has player fantasy values constantly on the move. Whether you’re used to the dynasty platform or are still learning the rules, let’s dive into the latest dynasty value of Javonte Williams.
Javonte Williams’ Dynasty Outlook and Value
The dynasty universe mostly considers Williams as a consensus top-eight running back. It’s understandable. He’s 23 years old and has flashed elite RB1 upside in just 21 professional games. The concern with Williams is, so far, he’s all potential.
Entering the 2022 season, Williams’ ADP spiked into the second round. This was after a rookie season that saw him unable to vanquish the ghost of Melvin Gordon III. Williams averaged 12.1 ppg as a rookie, finishing as a low RB2.
The entirety of his value stemmed from that one game against the Chiefs in Week 13 that Gordon missed, and Williams totaled 178 yards from scrimmage, finishing with 29.8 fantasy points as the overall RB1 on the week.
MORE: 2023 Dynasty Rookie Rankings
The 2022 season opened similarly to Williams’ rookie year. Through four games, Williams was averaging just a 52% snap share. Despite being the younger and presumptively more talented player, he couldn’t push Gordon into a true backup role.
Williams is entering his third season and coming off a torn ACL. Given when the injury occurred, he should be ready to go by training camp. Don’t expect to see Williams in any preseason games, but he should be fine for Week 1.
But could we be looking at a third consecutive “lost” season for Williams? We’ve seen plenty of running backs struggle in their first year back from an ACL tear. Most recently, Saquon Barkley, a generational RB talent, looked slow and unathletic in his first year back post-surgery. His elite ability returned the following year, but that does fantasy managers no favors in 2023.
Javonte Williams’ Fantasy Ranking
The most coveted asset in fantasy football is the elite running back. That creates a tricky proposition for Williams’ managers. He absolutely has the upside to help teams win now. But he’s yet to prove he actually is as good as where he’s valued.
Currently, he’s the RB9, No. 33 overall in our latest dynasty Superflex rankings. He’s ahead of several running backs who still have gas left in the tank and are far more proven producers. Such is the nature and value of age in dynasty.
There’s also the matter of the Broncos’ offense. Williams is going to spend at least two more years on this team. If Russell Wilson really is done, Williams could be operating as less than 100% in a bad offense and then have to deal with the team blowing it up and starting over in 2024.
I do like Williams as a player, but there’s a lot more risk than his price tag seems to suggest. He’s certainly a worthwhile selection in dynasty startup drafts, but the potential is there for Williams to never justify his lofty price tag.