EXCLUSIVE: Broncos' CJ Anderson tells Denver7 he's optimistic about recovery, likely headed to IR

CENTENNIAL, Colo. -- Broncos running back C.J. Anderson woke up from surgery to repair torn meniscus in his right knee optimistic, but realistic. He wants to play again this season, though it won't be for several months. The Broncos are expected to place Anderson on injured reserve, leaving him hopeful of returning if the team qualifies for the postseason.

"Need the playoff run," Anderson told Denver7 on Friday afternoon.

Broncos officials met Friday to evaluate Anderson's situation, gathering all information about his surgery, before moving forward. The Broncos have until Saturday at 2 p.m. to make a roster move for Sunday's game.

"(Anderson) will miss significant time," coach Gary Kubiak said Friday morning. 

The expected move this week is the promotion of practice squad running back Juwan Thompson. It's possible Broncos' general manager John Elway could look at trade avenues to add veteran depth over the next few days.

For now, promising rookie Devontae Booker will start. Former Colorado State star Kapri Bibbs will serve as his backup. Thompson has experience, and can ease Bibbs' workload on special teams.

"Obviously with C.J. not playing, we have to some decisions to make to get three backs to game day, so that's what we are working through," Kubiak said. "Book's had a really good week. Kapri's had a really good week."

Anderson told Denver7 there is no timetable on his recovery, though he's determined to play again this season. It has been a dizzying five days for Anderson, who proved again his toughness and dedication to the team with Monday's performance on a compromised leg. 

Anderson injured his right knee on the final play of the first quarter of the Broncos' 27-9 win over the Texans. He rushed 14 times after he was hurt, finishing with a game-high 107 yards. His output made it hard to reconcile his injury.

"The doctor couldn't believe I played on it," Anderson told Denver7. "Usually he said when people feel that, they are out." 

Anderson had pain Tuesday morning when he returned to work. It led to an MRI, a second opinion, and ultimately the surgical procedure in California. Of course, Anderson asked about avoiding surgery and continuing to play on the injured knee based on Monday's performance. However, the doctors told him he could risk more serious injury.

Anderson remains thankful for the support of the fans, and optimistic about his recovery. 

There is, of course, a speckle of frustration. Anderson led the NFL in yards from scrimmage in the second half of the past two seasons. And it looked like he was heading in that direction again.

"I was just getting into my groove man," Anderson said. "I just wish my team the best no matter what and I can't wait to play."

Want Broncos news? Denver7 Broncos insider Troy E. Renck is your source. He talks to the players, covers the games and reports scoops on Denver7 and the Denver7 app. He is a CU grad who has covered pro sports in Colorado since 1996, including 14 years at The Denver Post. Follow him on Facebook, Twitter and TheDenverChannel.com’s Broncos page. Troy welcomes most of your emails at Troy.Renck@kmgh.com.