Javonte Williams vs. Antonio Gibson: Who Should You Pick?

Updated on: October 15, 2024 2:35 am GMT

When deciding between two promising running backs in fantasy football, you might find yourself torn. With the upcoming season, many fantasy players ask, “Javonte Williams vs. Antonio Gibson: Who should you pick?” Both players bring unique strengths and play in different offensive schemes that can impact their productivity. In this article, we will explore their careers, playing styles, and the key indicators that can help you make an informed decision on who might be the right addition to your fantasy roster.

Career Overview of Javonte Williams

Javonte Williams burst onto the NFL scene with the Denver Broncos. Traditionally a workhorse back, Williams is known for his powerful running style and ability to break tackles. He played college football at the University of North Carolina, where he showcased exceptional skills, earning him a second-round draft pick in 2021.

Key Highlights:

• Drafted: 35th overall in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft
• Rookie Season Stats: In 2021, Williams rushed for 903 yards and scored 4 touchdowns.
• Strengths: Williams has fast acceleration, impressive agility, and is tough to bring down.

In 2022, Williams faced injury issues, which impacted his playing time and overall effectiveness. Despite the challenges, his potential remains high.

Injury Status and Recovery

Williams suffered a severe knee injury in 2022, which raised concerns about his return. As of 2023, reports indicate he has made significant strides in his recovery. Keeping an eye on injury updates during training camps will be crucial for fantasy players.

Career Overview of Antonio Gibson

Antonio Gibson has established himself as a multi-dimensional threat playing for the Washington Commanders. He played his college football at the University of Memphis, transitioning from wide receiver to running back. This versatile skill set has allowed him to excel in both rushing and receiving roles.

Key Highlights:

• Drafted: 66th overall in the third round of the 2020 NFL Draft
• Rookie Season Stats: In 2020, Gibson rushed for 795 yards with 11 touchdowns and added 36 receptions for 247 yards.
• Strengths: Gibson is known for his speed, route-running ability, and capability as a pass-catcher.

Gibson continued to build on his performance in the subsequent season, showcasing his versatility. He remains a crucial part of the Commanders’ offense.

Recent Performance and Usage

In 2022, Gibson experienced changes in his role, particularly with the emergence of rookie Brian Robinson Jr. This shift has affected his number of carries and overall impact on the field. Monitoring offseason developments can help gauge his workload heading into the new season.

Comparative Analysis: Williams vs. Gibson

When evaluating both players, consider their distinct strengths, weaknesses, and the offensive schemes of their respective teams.

Playing Style

• Javonte Williams is built for power, making him effective between the tackles. He excels at breaking tackles and gaining yards after contact, making him a long-term asset if he can stay healthy.
• Antonio Gibson, on the other hand, has the ability to catch passes out of the backfield. This versatility makes him valuable in PPR (points per reception) leagues, providing both rushing and receiving points.

Offensive Scheme and Role

• Williams likely will have a more pronounced role in a traditional run-heavy offense, especially if the Broncos commit to establishing the ground game.
• Gibson may see fluctuation in usage if the Commanders favor a more balanced attack featuring both him and Robinson. However, his pass-catching ability gives him inherent value.

Fantasy Football Impact: Who Should You Pick?

Choosing between Williams and Gibson hinges on your league format and team needs. Below are some considerations for making your choice:

• If you prioritize consistency and durability, Javonte Williams might be your pick, provided he returns to form post-injury.
• If you’re looking for a multi-faceted threat who can contribute in both rushing and receiving, Antonio Gibson could be the better choice.

Projected Stats for 2023

While projections can vary widely, here are some anticipated stats for Williams and Gibson in the upcoming season:

These projections serve as guidelines and depend on how teams utilize their running backs throughout the season.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, the choice between Javonte Williams and Antonio Gibson comes down to personal preference and your current fantasy roster requirements. Williams offers power running and potential for big plays, while Gibson’s versatility makes him ideal for different scoring formats.

Consider your team strategy, risk tolerance, and need for a consistent contributor as you make your decision. Both players have the ability to significantly impact your fantasy season.

whether you lean towards the power of Javonte Williams or the versatility of Antonio Gibson, assessing their roles and potential in the upcoming season will be key to maximizing your fantasy football success. Your final decision should reflect your strategy and team composition in your league.

If you want to learn more about how running backs do in football and get tips for your fantasy team, there are some great articles out there that can help you!