Heading into free agency, most expected the Broncos to re-sign one of their running backs, C.J. Anderson or Ronnie Hillman, but not both. After Anderson received his 4-year, $18 million contract, that looked to be even more true.
With Kapri Bibbs and Juwan Thompson waiting in the wings, as well as the expected selection of a running back in this year’s draft, there seemed to be no need to pay Hillman the type of money he’d likely be commanding when they already have other options in play.
Apparently, though, either Hillman’s price or the Broncos confidence in those other backs has lowered enough that the two sides are talking once again.
According to Mike Klis of 9News the Broncos have exchanged contract proposals with Hillman. The Denver Posts’ Troy Renck backs up that report.
Confirmed #Broncos haven't ruled out bringing back RB Ronnie Hillman. He's on the radar and team has talked parameters of a contract.
— Troy Renck (@TroyRenck) April 10, 2016
Still, that doesn’t mean John Elway is ready to put all his eggs back in the Hillman-Anderson basket; Renck reports the Broncos are still expected to draft a running back.
Kubiak mentioned last month that team interested in keeping Hillman, who has found tepid FA market. #broncos still expected to draft a RB
— Troy Renck (@TroyRenck) April 10, 2016
Hillman has spent his first four seasons in Denver and has started 15 games, 11 of which came last season. He’s averaged a consistent 4.1 yards per carry through his career and has added 12 touchdowns on the ground.
He may never be a Pro Bowl-caliber back, but he’s an NFL back, no doubt. With a rebuilt offensive line, the Broncos would be able to put him to good use.
