Broncos Notebook: It's 'all systems go' for Willis McGahee

RB Willis McGahee worked on a limited basis Wednesday but is confident that he will play Sunday. He has been recovering from a rib cartilage injury he suffered in Week 3.

By Andrew Mason

Sep 26, 2012 at 7:26 pm ET • 1 min read

Willis McGahee's rib injury shouldn't keep him out for the Raiders' game Sunday. (AP)

Willis McGahee's return to practice for the Broncoson Wednesday was uneventful, which is exactly how he wanted it after a painful Sunday in which he suffered a rib cartilage injury.

"All systems go on my end," said McGahee, who worked on a limited basis during Wednesday's practice.

McGahee, whose 50 carries this season are twice as many as the rest of his teammates combined, said he isn't sure when he suffered the injury Sunday, but he only carried the ball once after halftime before returning to the bench.

"I got hit one time, and it felt like my whole world ended," McGahee said. "I'd rather try to be healthy for this game coming up."

McGahee said he might wear extra protection around his ribs but that his decision would be based on how he felt after practice the next two days.

Kuper back: RG Chris Kuperpracticed for the first time in just over six weeks Wednesday. Kuper hadn't practiced since Aug. 14, when he fractured his left forearm during a training-camp session.

"I haven't seen him smile that big in a while," Broncos coach John Fox said.

Kuper, who worked on a limited basis Wednesday, had been held back in practice during training camp because he was completing recovery from the fractured fibula and torn ankle ligaments he suffered on Jan. 1. He had just advanced into a full practice workload when he suffered the arm injury.

It might be another week before Kuper plays because the Broncos want to get him up to game speed and condition before throwing him back into his work. Manny Ramirezhas filled in for him and struggled Sunday, allowing 2.5 sacks to Houston DE J.J. Watt.

Other injuries -- Not practicing Wednesday: SS Quinton Carter (knee), WR Matt Willis (left hamstring) and LB Nate Irving (concussion). Practicing fully but listed on the injury report: TE Jacob Tamme (groin), CB Tracy Porter (knee bruise) and CB Chris Harris (ankle).

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