McFadden has pin removed

[Greenhead22]

Updated: Aug. 21, 2006, 6:29 PM ET
Arkansas' McFadden has pin removed from toe
Associated Press

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. -- Arkansas running back Darren McFadden had the pin removed from his toe Monday, but he is still doubtful for the Sept. 2 season opener against Southern California (No. 3 USA Today; No. 6 AP).

McFadden had surgery late last month on a dislocated toe that he apparently suffered in a fight outside a Little Rock nightclub. The injury put his status in jeopardy for the opener.

A pin was inserted during the operation to stabilize a joint of his left big toe. It was taken out Monday.

"The procedure was successful and he will continue the rehabilitation process immediately," trainer Dean Weber said. "We will begin with range of motion exercises and continue his cardiovascular work on the elliptical machine and the bike. In addition, he will begin rehabilitation work in the pool early this week. We fully expect there to be swelling and discomfort resulting from increased range-of-motion exercises."

McFadden can walk in a normal shoe, Weber said, but needs to build up to jogging and running.

"When he is able to run and change directions effectively, he will return to the practice field," Weber said. "We will measure his progress on a week-to-week basis. He remains doubtful for the USC game."

Copyright 2006 by The Associated Press