Denver Broncos: Who Will Win The Starting Running Back Job?

Oct 23, 2014; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos running back Ronnie Hillman (23) runs the ball during the first half against the San Diego Chargers at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports

The Wild Card – Ronnie Hillman

Ronnie Hillman inherited the starting job from Montee Ball after he was placed on IR last season and, pardon the expression, ran with it. He had two 100 yard performances against the New York Jets and San Diego Chargers and scored two touchdowns against a stingy San Francisco 49ers defense.

Unfortunately, much like Ball, Hillman got bitten by the injury bug just as he was taking full advantage of his opportunity. In the rout against the Raiders in early November, Hillman sprained his foot and was ruled out for 2-3 weeks. He was out for close to two months and did not log another carry until the final game of the season, also against the Raiders.

He seems an unlikely candidate to win the starting job but he proved that he could handle the load when he was previously thought of as a change of pace back. He has the shiftiness and quickness to be a home run threat in the Broncos offense and they would do well to get him as many touches as possible. Those touches will not likely come as the starter but he may come in to camp ahead of Ball on the depth chart because of his big play ability.

Next: The Unexpected Star