Who Should I Start? Javonte Williams or Jalen Tolbert

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.

Monday, January 6, 9:20 AM

Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Jalen Tolbert was targeted six times in Sunday's 23-19 loss to the Washington Commanders. The third-year receiver secured four receptions for 98 yards, leading the team in both categories. Tolbert wrapped up the 2024 campaign with career highs across all metrics, as he grabbed 45 receptions for 512 yards and seven touchdowns on the season. The 25-year-old still has a year remaining on his rookie contract and will likely stick around as the Cowboys' WR3 going into 2025.