May 7, 2021
Running backs have been so devalued over the last 10 years in the NFL that a general manager can spark criticism for trading up five spots to draft one in the second round even one whom many analysts had graded as the No. 1 prospect at his position in North Carolina s Javonte Williams.
The former UNC star forced a total of 76 missed tackles on runs last season, per Pro Football Focus, and that ability to pick up yards after contact prompted Denver Broncos GM George Paton to orchestrate a trade-up with Atlanta to select Williams with the No. 35 pick in last week s NFL draft.