Willis McGahee is on pace to return late in the playoffs if the Denver Broncos are still alive. The running back, who suffered a torn MCL and broken leg on November 18, is right on schedule in his recovery and rehab, which has him eying a mid-January return to the field.

Fox on McGahee's progress: "Good. He’s rehabbing. All indications are it’s on schedule & he’s getting better every day."

— Gray Caldwell (@GrayCaldwell) December 28, 2012

McGahee rushed for 731 yards in 10 games this season before going down against the Chargers last month. He was averaging 4.4 yards per rush and had four touchdowns.

The Broncos haven't missed him much, though. They have won all five of their games since his injury and are averaging 28.4 points per game in those five wins. Knowshon Moreno has taken over as the team's lead running back, leading the team in rushing ever since McGahee was hurt after McGahee led the team in each of its first 10 games.

If the Broncos win on Sunday, they will clinch a bye in the first round of the playoffs. McGahee might be able to return for the divisional round, but more likely would be targeting an AFC Championship Game return.