A busy Broncos offseason has been marked by several changes on the field and the sidelines, but one of its other top storylines has been the recovery process of Javonte Williams. The team’s lead running back provided the latest optimistic remarks on that front. 
Williams spoke about his rehab from the torn ACL and LCL he suffered in October during a football camp he co-hosted. When asked about his readiness to return to the field for training camp later this month, the 23-year-old replied, “I mean, that’s the plan. I feel like I’m ready to go”(h/t ESPN’s Jeff Legwold).
That optimism matches what the Broncos have expressed publicly during the offseason regarding Williams’ ability to be fully healed in time for Week 1. The North Carolina product took part in OTAs (in a limited capacity) in May, adding further to the belief that the PUP list could be avoided during the summer. Receiving clearance in time for training camp would be another positive development.
“It’s just all about the evaluation, how the Broncos feel about it,” Williams – who stated that he will continue practicing while wearing a brace for the time being – added. “Just seeing how I feel, moving, just trying to get my speed back to normal, things like that.”
The Broncos added Samaje Perine in free agency, a move which should allow the veteran to play a notable role in the team’s offense. Denver did not bring back Melvin Gordon or Mike Boone, however, nor did they spend any draft capital at the RB position. As a result, Williams will once again be counted on to serve as the focal point of Denver’s ground game upon return.
Questions will understandably be asked about the former second-rounder’s ability to resume his productive form when back on the field, given the time usually required for players to fully regain their explosiveness after ACL injuries. As things currently stand, however, Williams can be expected to be cleared well in advance of Week 1.