Broncos put RB Willis McGahee on IR/designated to return list

After suffering a torn MCL and a compression knee fracture in Week 11, Broncos running back Willis McGahee didn't have much of a chance of playing again during the regular season. On Wednesday, the team moved McGahee to the injured reserve/designated to return list, assuring that he won't be on the field until the playoffs. Reports surfaced after the nature of the injury came to light that McGahee was hoping to play within four-to-six weeks. Now he won't be eligible to play until the AFC Championship game on Jan. 20.

Fantasy Analysis:

Ronnie Hillman is the next man up. The third-round rookie from San Diego State has flashed his abilities in a few games this season, most often in blowouts. But he has the speed that makes him a true big-play threat. You've got to like the matchup against the Chiefs this Sunday, but I'm not certain that Hillman will get more than 15 touches. He's not an especially big man, and I expect Hillman to share work with Lance Ball and, to a lesser extent, Knowshon Moreno . Still, Hillman is a low-end RB2 with upside.