Q: Dr. Dave, what is your take on Stephen Davis' attempt to comeback from microfracture knee surgery?

A: Microfracture surgery for the knee is usually considered when there is significant damage to the cartilage that covers the bone, leading to "bone-on-bone", instead of a smooth surface of cartilage for the joint to move through. The surgeon actually drills holes through the bone, to allow marrow cells to bleed through and fill areas where cartilage has worn through or torn. A clot forms, and then the marrow makes a softer, smoother surface for the bone to move over. Usually the patient is not allowed to bear weight for several weeks, sometimes 2 months, and then a gradual return to activity follows. No return to high level sports is possible for at least 4-6 months. 

Davis' microfracture surgery was 9 months ago, so he should be at the level of starting to return to football. The actually recovery and ability to run, return of strength and flexibility is quite variable from person to person. Certainly enough healing has taken place by now. The question to be answered is how well he can run without pain, and how much swelling he gets after his workouts. I'd pay close attention to the reports in the first few weeks of training camp. If he's have pain and swelling, he likely didn't have a great recovery. Personally, I wouldn't put any player high on the draft board who has needed this surgery, as his playing days are numbered. However, if he can return to playing shape in training camp, he might be worth a late round "comeback" pick. Keep in mind that there has been significant damage in the knee already, and he's trying to squeeze out as many games as he can. I'd be surprised if he returned to an every-down back again, and if he did, he might not make it through a full season.