ESPN NFL

Posted by ESPN.com's Bill Williamson

• Rookie running back Ryan Torain is close to making his debut after sitting the past three months with an elbow injury.

My take: Never has so much been expected from a fifth-round pick. But Denver coach Mike Shanahan set the tone when Torain was hurt. He said it was a huge loss and that Torain reminded him of a young Terrell Davis. Torain is now edging closer to playing and he is hopeful of playing Sunday against Miami. Will he be an instant success? It will be difficult. He's a rookie and he's rusty. It may take a few weeks. No matter how long it takes, Denver could use a shot in the arm and maybe Torain is it.

Kansas City

• Larry Johnson is visiting the commissioner today after a series of off-field issues.

My take: This is not going to end well for Johnson. Expect within the next couple of weeks that Johnson will be suspended by the league. Of course, Johnson is already being punished by the Chiefs. He has been inactive the past two games and general manager Carl Peterson indicated Monday that Johnson will be gone from the team for more time.

Oakland

• Michael Bush could play some at fullback.

My take: Bush should embrace the chance. The Raiders just lost Justin Griffith for the season and don't have a reliable fullback. I'm not saying Bush should be the full-time fullback but maybe he can use this as a way of getting more playing time. He really hasn't been in the mix for Oakland and he was reportedly nearly traded to San Diego on the trade deadline day. He needs to get some playing time. This is a chance for him.

• Former Raiders coach Lane Kiffin will be on the University of Washington's list as it looks for a new coach.

My take: Watch for Kiffin to be on several schools' short list. He has made it clear he wants to go back to the college ranks and he will likely find himself a head coaching job in the next couple of months.

San Diego

• The Chargers stagger home from back-to-back losses in Buffalo and London.

My take: The Chargers have to enjoy their bye. They have to try to forget a miserable first half. They are better than this. They need to rest and then come out of the bye and show everyone how good they are.