Broncos' Ball to have appendectomy, will be ready for regular season

Montee Ball's 2014 has started with a bit of a hiccup.

The Broncos' expected starting running back was set to have an appendectomy Monday, a surgery that usually keeps players off the field for a couple of weeks. However, the Denver Post reports that Ball will be on the field for the team's regular-season opener Sept. 7.

The second-year pro seemed in high spirits and isn't worried.

I appreciate the get well wishes everyone! I will be ok and come back stronger than ever!! #Broncos
— Montee Ball (@ballrb28) August 4, 2014

Ball could miss the entire preseason, depending on how his recovery progresses. Running backs Ronnie Hillman and CJ Anderson will handle most of the work in the second-year pro's absence.