Willis McGahee Injury: Updates on Broncos RB's Week 9 Status and Fantasy Value

Much of the focus in Denver at the moment is on struggles of quarterback Tim Tebow, but the Broncos have some issues at the running back position as well.

Namely, leading rusher Willis McGahee is currently recovering from hand surgery, and his status for this weekend's contest against the Oakland Raiders is up in the air. McGahee had his surgery barely over a week ago, and he may need more time to heal.

For all the latest news and fantasy analysis concerning McGahee, be sure to check back here periodically for updates.

UPDATE: Sunday, Nov. 6, 3:15 p.m. ET by Donald Wood

The Denver Broncos will have the luxury of having both Knowshon Moreno and injured running back Willis McGahee coming out of the backfield.

Rotoworld is reporting on the status of McGahee in today’s game:

After breaking his hand, there are serious questions about his grip on the ball, and how long he will be able to hold up to the full contact. I think you have to sit him in fantasy unless you need a player.

UPDATE: Wednesday at 2:45 p.m. ET

There is some good news regarding McGahee's status on Wednesday. After sitting out Sunday's game against the Detroit Lions just days after he had his surgery, it sounds like McGahee is on the mend.

Here's today's news from Lindsay Jones of The Denver Post:

Does this mean McGahee will be able to play on Sunday against the Raiders? Not necessarily, but it definitely means there's at least a possibility that McGahee could play on Sunday. In fact, he might end up being a game-time decision.

If you're a McGahee fantasy owner, I would proceed carefully here. Keep McGahee on your bench for now and continue to monitor his status as we creep towards Sunday.

If it is announced that McGahee is healthy and good to go, I would recommend starting him. The Raiders have improved against the run in recent weeks, but that may have more to do with the running backs they've faced than any kind of team-wide improvement.

Besides, you just know the Broncos would rather put the ball in McGahee's hands than they would Tim Tebow's.