Who Should I Start? Javonte Williams or Jahmyr Gibbs

Monday, January 20, 6:15 PM

The Denver Gazette's Chris Tomasson writes that the Denver Broncos are not expected to re-sign impending free-agent running back Javonte Williams this offseason. Williams, a former second-round pick in 2021 out of North Carolina, entered the 2024 season as the team's unquestioned lead back, but poor efficiency on the ground led to the Broncos going with a committee approach in the backfield halfway through the year that also involved Jaleel McLaughlin and rookie Audric Estime. The 24-year-old came into the NFL as a bruising, tackle-breaking lead-back option for Denver, but since suffering a torn ACL in his sophomore season in 2022, he has not been the same, averaging just 3.6 yards per carry while combining for 1,287 rushing yards and only seven rushing TDs the last two seasons. Despite leading Denver with 513 rushing yards in 2024, Williams will likely struggle to find a lead-back role on the open market.

Sunday, January 19, 12:16 AM

Detroit Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs rushed 14 times for 105 yards and two touchdowns during Saturday's loss to the Washington Commanders. He also caught six of his 11 targets for an additional 70 yards through the air. Although the Lions' season ended in an upset loss, Gibbs played phenomenal football, demonstrating elite efficiency on the ground and an exceptional target share through the air. He has firmly established himself as the centerpiece of Detroit's offense despite competing for touches with players like Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams, Sam LaPorta, and David Montgomery. In case there was still any debate, Gibbs is clearly a top running back option in redraft and dynasty leagues for fantasy football. He should be one of the first few players off the board in 2025 drafts, and he could join elite company atop the scoring leaderboard next year. His rushing efficiency, pass-catching skills, and nose for the end zone are unmatched, and his role in a highly productive offense is just the icing on the cake.