It's almost ironic how Dallas Cowboys running back DeMarco Murray's season has gone. Long considered injury-prone (missed 11 games through his first three seasons) and unworthy of a high pick, Murray finally put together a healthy season last year. He rewarded fantasy owners who were brave enough to stick with him this season with some sensational production (1,687 yards and 11 rushing touchdowns) only to break a bone in his hand on Sunday.
Now is not exactly an ideal time to be concerned with injuries to your fantasy MVP. This week is the championship game for most fantasy leagues. As a guy who is playing against Murray in one of those championship games, I desperately wish I could tell you he is a lock to miss Sunday's outing against the Indianapolis Colts. Alas, that would be too good to be true.
Bryan Broaddus of DallasCowboys.com says that the "early thinking is yes" on whether or not Murray will play this weekend.
"That jibes with what ESPN Injury Analyst Stephania Bell said on ESPN Monday," Tom Carpenter wrote. "Bell cited a recent study that discussed the return time of collegiate players from this surgery. Bell said that, on average, college players returned to action in 2.8 days."
That time frame would have Murray ready to go. However, if he is unable to suit up, it is likely that Joseph Randle would see the majority of snaps in his place, with Lance Dunbar subbing in on passing downs.
The Cowboys are just barely ahead of the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFC East race, meaning they need every win they can get to close out the season. It wouldn't shock me if the team was pushing hard for Murray to hit the field behind closed doors. Owners should be sure to check up on the running back's status daily.
