Willis McGahee returns to practice for Broncos

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. – He was hard to find at first.

But there, in the black, number-less jersey, was Willis McGahee, making his return to Broncos' practice for the first time since injuring his knee in a game on Nov. 18.

The Broncos used their injured reserve exemption on McGahee, and he was cleared to practice this week. He is not eligible to return to the active roster or play in a game until at least next week, should the Broncos advance to the AFC Championship Game by beating the Ravens on Saturday.

McGahee went through individual drills with his teammates during the portion of practice that was open to the media. His black jersey was a sign that he would do some work on the scout team later in the practice.

McGahee is the Broncos' leading rusher, with 731 yards and four touchdowns, but he hasn't played since he was injured in the first half against San Diego. He suffered a strained MCL and also a compound fracture in his lower leg but did not need surgery.

The only Broncos player held out of practice Wednesday was cornerback Tracy Porter, who hasn't practiced since suffering a concussion in the first quarter of a game against Cleveland on Dec. 23. That was his only action since symptoms of a seizure reoccurred in mid-October.

"He's worked very hard. Our trainer and his staff, and Willis have worked hard, and he had a good first day," Broncos coach John Fox said.