Denver Broncos Road To 53: Running backs and Special Teams

Why no Ronnie Hillman?

Aug 24, 2013; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning (18) hands off to running back Ronnie Hillman (21) during the first quarter against the St. Louis Rams at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports

I am alone among the Predominately Orange writers on this, but I don’t see Hillman making the roster. Yes, right now he is the #2 RB, but last year at this time he was the #1 RB. A year ago he fumbled away his opportunity during the preseason, ending up as the #3 RB once the season started. He continued to let his opportunities slip through his grasp, as a fumble that ultimately gave the Indianapolis Colts the win, landed him on the bench as the #4 RB for the rest of the season. The fumbles are bad, but what’s worse was that he crumbled under pressure.

His rookie year was ok for being a third round pick, then he regressed in his second year. I know John Elway traded up in the third round to get Hillman, but that doesn’t guarantee a spot for him any longer. Hillman has a lot of potential, but you can’t build a consistent contending team with potential. Hillman needs to recognize his potential and take the steps needed to reach it. If he fumbles during the preseason (he has fumbled once during training camp), he will have an even harder road. The coaches are focusing on limiting turnovers on offense, so a fumble could be the end of Hillman in a Broncos uniform.

There is a long ways away, like previously stated, and Hillman might actually prove me wrong, reach that potential and be great. I just am not counting on that.