Darren McFadden Injury: Raiders Make Right Move in Being Cautious with Superstar

Generally, a mid-foot sprain doesn't take too long to heal.

However, with star running back Darren McFadden being held out since Week 7, the Raiders have been accused by some as hiding something about his injury.

But that's likely not the case.

First of all, while mid-foot sprains generally aren't this limiting, it's basic knowledge that some players heal slower than others. That could be the case with McFadden.

But my theory is that the Raiders are indeed making sure he's 100 percent, as they've stated.

And that's a very wise decision.

The Raiders may be just 6-4, one game ahead of the (gulp) surging Denver Broncos in the AFC West, but they also have looked worlds better than any other team in the division, including the Broncos.

Aided by the acquisition of quarterback Carson Palmer (who's been better than expected), the emergence of rookie receiver Denarius Moore and one of the best backups in the league, Michael Bush, the Raiders are actually in pretty good shape, even without McFadden.

And given McFadden's injury history, there's absolutely no reason to risk potentially ending his season by rushing him out onto the field. The Raiders have a very good chance of winning the division, even if he's held out until the playoffs.

The Raiders have a true superstar in McFadden, and it's only human nature to want to see him on the field again.

But the Raiders, despite some strides this season, won't be a legitimate threat to go deep into the playoffs without McFadden.

Losing McFadden for the season would be similar to the situation the bumbling Buffalo Bills find themselves in right now with Fred Jackson: headed in the wrong direction.