Javonte Williams Prepares for Emotional Return to Denver, Reflects on Former Team

Running back Javonte Williams, who was drafted by the Denver Broncos in 2021, spent four seasons with the team before signing with the Dallas Cowboys this offseason. Now, after an impressive start in Dallas, Williams is set to face his former team for the first time since leaving Denver—a matchup that promises to be emotional but remains filled with positivity for the talented running back.

Williams’ time with the Broncos was a mix of promise and adversity. In his rookie season, he demonstrated flashes of elite ability, quickly establishing himself as a dynamic playmaker. However, his second season was cut short by a devastating knee injury, a setback that put his future in the league into question. Despite this challenge and his eventual departure in free agency, Williams looks back on his time in Denver with genuine appreciation.

“It was just a good atmosphere,” Williams said when reflecting on his former team. “I loved the team, I loved the staff, the coaches. I had a good time. It probably didn’t go the way I wanted it to go, but I mean, I’m here now.”

His comments underline the respect and gratitude he has for the Broncos, highlighting that his focus is not on past disappointments but on the relationships he formed and the growth he experienced there. Williams’ approach shows a maturity often rare for players who have experienced career-altering injuries early in their professional journey. Rather than dwelling on what could have been, he channels his energy into the present and future.

Williams’ new chapter with the Cowboys has been nothing short of remarkable. Through the first seven weeks of the season, he has emerged as a cornerstone of Dallas’ offense, ranking second in the NFL in rushing yards with 592 and already tallying a career-high six touchdowns. His resurgence is particularly noteworthy given the uncertainty surrounding his health and performance following his knee injury. For Williams, the turnaround has been a combination of physical recovery, mental preparation, and guidance from teammates.

A key part of his physical comeback has been embracing unconventional recovery methods, such as acupuncture, which he credits to Cowboys wide receiver CeeDee Lamb. However, Williams emphasizes that his mental approach to the game has been equally important. “I feel like, mentally, I’m on a different level just understanding the plays,” he explained. “You’re not going to beat people with just pure talent. You’ve got to actually have a plan.”

This mental preparation is evident in the way Williams has approached each game, studying defenses, reading opportunities, and working closely with the coaching staff to maximize his impact on the field. The result has been a seamless integration into the Cowboys’ offense and a level of performance that exceeds many expectations for a player coming off a major knee injury.

Looking ahead to Sunday’s game at Empower Field, Williams acknowledges the significance of returning to the site of his early career. However, he is quick to stress that his mindset is not about revenge or proving a point. Instead, he is focused on contributing to Dallas’ success and helping the team reach its goals. “I’m just going to go out there and play my game, do what I’ve got to do, and try to make plays for my teammates,” he said.

His comments reflect both humility and a team-first mentality. Williams is aware of the personal narrative surrounding his return, but he chooses to prioritize the collective effort over individual storylines. It’s a perspective that not only endears him to teammates and fans alike but also reinforces the professionalism that has defined his career since entering the NFL.

As Williams prepares to face Denver, the matchup is set to be a personal and professional milestone. For Broncos fans, it will be a chance to see a former star who overcame adversity, while for Cowboys supporters, it’s an opportunity to witness the continued growth of a key offensive weapon. For Williams, the focus remains steadfast: play smart, contribute to the team, and savor the journey.

Ultimately, Javonte Williams’ story is one of resilience, respect, and renewed opportunity. From his early promise in Denver to his current success in Dallas, he exemplifies what it means to overcome setbacks while maintaining perspective and gratitude. As he steps onto the field this Sunday, fans on both sides will undoubtedly witness not just a talented running back, but a player whose dedication and character continue to leave a lasting impact on the league.