Denver Broncos Pick RB Ronnie Hillman 67th Overall

The Denver Broncos have jumped head first into the second round of this draft, trading up to the 67th spot to acquire RB Ronnie Hillman out of San Diego State.

As a freshman, Hillman ran for 1,532 yards and 18 touchdowns. He’s 5’9,” 200 pounds and very explosive. In 2011, he had 1,711 yards and 19 touchdowns. He also added 24 receptions for 270 yards and one touchdown through the air.

Scouting report from NFL.com:

Strengths

• Fantastic open-field skills
• Extremely agile and quick-footed
• Great vision
• Athletic with good speed (4.45 40-yard dash time)
• Strong lower body (37-inch vertical jump)
• Better inside runner than his size suggests – has the patience to wait for a hole and lateral agility to make impressive cutback runs
• Surprisingly strong stiff arm
• Big-play threat every time he touches the ball
• Willing blocker – puts effort forth
• Capable receiver out of the backfield
• Displays general football smarts

Weaknesses

• Undersized (5-foot-8 3/8, 200 pounds)
• Ball security issues
• Very poor technique as a blocker (too low and overextends) and lacks anchor ability
• Not a natural receiver despite making strides in 2011 (small hands may play a role)
• When he struggles, he really struggles

Many have compared his style of play to that of Darren Sproles. Knowshon Moreno will likely take on a third down role if anything. What a great compliment to Willis McGahee.

In order to get the pick, the Broncos sent their 87th (third round) and 120th (fourth round) to Cleveland.

What do you think of the pick?