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Come Fan with UsSaturday, June 20, 2026

Montee Ball’s appendectomy not expected to affect fantasy value

The Broncos starter is having his appendix removed, but he should be back on his feet in time for the regular season. We break down the fantasy implications.

Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

Denver Broncos running back Montee Ball is going under the knife, but not for any football-related injury. Ball is undergoing an appendectomy on Monday and is out for the rest of training camp. The Broncos hope to have him back in time for Week 1.

An appendectomy generally takes around 4-6 weeks to fully recover from. That would put Ball’s timetable right around the regular season opener, assuming he has no complications or setbacks. He rushed for 559 yards and four touchdowns as a rookie last year. With Knowshon Moreno leaving in free agency, Ball is expected to be the new starter in Denver.

Fantasy impact: Ball was drawing rave reviews throughout camp and going in the first round in many fantasy drafts. If the surgery and recovery go smoothly he shouldn't miss any regular season time. The real battle now begins between C.J. Anderson and Ronnie Hillman for preseason snaps. Anderson has been working with the second team, with Hillman operating as Ball's primary change-of-pace back.

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