Denver Broncos

Ronnie Hillman being shopped by the Broncos

Published Jun. 30, 2017 6:28 p.m. ET

foxsports

The Denver Broncos are reportedly trying to trade running back Ronnie Hillman.

On a day where players across the league are fighting to make 53-man rosters, it’s being reported that the Denver Broncos are trying to trade Ronnie Hillman:

Report: Broncos trying to deal Ronnie Hillman https://t.co/JnU16g99O4

— Rotoworld Football (@Rotoworld_FB) September 2, 2016

Interestingly enough, Hillman led last years Super Bowl champs in rushing with 863 yards (4.2 yards per carry) and seven touchdowns. Those aren’t spectacular numbers, but ones that make it somewhat surprising that Hillman is on the trade block. Not only is Hillman being shopped, but he’s not even a guarantee to make the Broncos 53-man roster which is set to be announced at 2 p.m. MT on Saturday.

Hillman has become expendable ever since C.J. Anderson overtook the starting running back job and the Broncos drafted rookie Devontae Booker out of Utah with a fourth round pick in the 2016 draft.

It’s reportedly between Hillman and Kapri Bibbs to earn the No. 3 running back job for Denver. The deciding factor between the two could come down to the ability of contributing on special teams, which Hillman has not been known to do. As a runner, Hillman has actually performed decently this preseason, rushing 13 times for 88 yards, an average of 6.3 yards per carry.

This isn’t a case of Ronnie Hillman having nothing left in the tank. It’s more the fact that the Broncos can only afford to keep three running backs on the roster given needs at other positions.

Hillman will definitely generate interest whether it is through trade or if he is cut. A team like the Washington Redskins could be a possibility. They have a stable of young, promising backs (Matt Jones, Chris Thompson, Rob Kelley) but Hillman could provide some value as a proven veteran who has gotten the job done in the past. Another possibility could be the Steelers as a third back behind DeAngelo Williams and Le’Veon Bell who is injury-prone and likes to get suspended.

If the Broncos decide to cut Hillman, they will save $1.4 million in base salary.