UNC junior running back Javonte Williams announced Saturday afternoon that he is opting out of next week’s Orange Bowl and will be declaring for the 2021 NFL Draft.

Williams was recently named a First Team All-American by Pro Football Focus and a Second Team All-ACC selection after rushing for 1,140 yards and setting a new Tar Heel record with 22 total touchdowns this season.

ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. currently has Williams ranked as the No. 3 running back prospect in the country.

He joins teammates Michael Carter, Chazz Surratt and Dyami Brown in opting out of the Orange Bowl, which is the program’s first major bowl appearance since 1950.

This will leave the Tar Heels without their top two running backs, top receiver and top defensive player against Texas A&M.

 

 

Photo via ACC Media

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