RB Ronnie Hillman re-signs with the Denver Broncos

Jan 3, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos running back Ronnie Hillman (23) scores a touchdown in the fourth quarter against the San Diego Chargers at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Broncos defeated the Chargers 27-20. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 3, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos running back Ronnie Hillman (23) scores a touchdown in the fourth quarter against the San Diego Chargers at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. The Broncos defeated the Chargers 27-20. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit

As the Denver Broncos returned for offseason workouts, running back Ronnie Hillman also returned to the fold to presumably back up CJ Anderson…

The Super Bowl champion Denver Broncos have officially closed the book on one of the most spectacular seasons in franchise history, and are back at work Monday. Free agent running back Ronnie Hillman is back as well.

After it was reported initially a few weeks ago that the Broncos had interest in bringing Hillman back, the interest on both sides amplified as offseason workouts drew nearer, and Hillman returned to Denver where he was initially drafted in the third round back in 2012.

Hillman had a career year in 2015, despite playing horribly in the playoffs with one of the biggest mistakes of his career in the AFC Championship game against the Patriots. Hillman rushed for 863 yards and seven touchdowns this past year after sort of ‘breaking out’ in 2014 when the Broncos’ backfield suffered a number of injuries.

He’s developed into quite the all-around back, despite the fact that he has had trouble with consistency. Hillman is a pretty good pass protector in addition to being a solid receiver out of the backfield, and he provides the Broncos with a spark of speed in the running game.

It’s always funny to me how easily people forget these kind of plays that Hillman made this past year, and what he’s capable of doing at just 24 years of age…

So, please excuse for being excited that he’s back in orange and blue. I like Hillman, and understand his struggles as well as anyone else. But clearly, the talent is there. Here’s to another big season for Hillman and the Broncos.