UNC junior running back Javonte Williams became the first Tar Heel off the board in this year’s NFL Draft on Friday night, as the Denver Broncos selected him in the second round with the No. 35 overall pick.

Williams ran for 2,297 yards and 29 touchdowns during his three years at UNC, including setting a new school record with 22 total touchdowns in 2020.

Pro Football Focus recently ranked Williams as the top running back available in this year’s draft, due to his combination of strength and speed in the running game. Williams and UNC teammate Michael Carter were also named First Team All-Americans by Pro Football Focus for their efforts during the 2020 season.

The Broncos currently have an established veteran in Melvin Gordon III in their starting running back position, but the team has used a running back tandem more often than not in recent seasons. After releasing Philip Lindsey earlier this offseason, Denver appears to be hoping Williams can slide right into a major role alongside Gordon.

Denver also traded up five picks in a deal with the Atlanta Falcons in order to secure Williams’ services.

He becomes the third running back taken in this year’s draft, after Alabama’s Najee Harris and Clemson’s Travis Etienne were selected during Thursday’s First Round.

 

Photo via ACC Media

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