FanPost

Ronnie Hillman: The End of a Silent Era

As the NFL turns its attention to the first week-one, Super Bowl rematch since 1970, the two teams on the field know this is a different season with different teams. Both organizations made changes over the offseason yet there is one familiar face in particular that Bronco fans will not see on the orange and blue sideline, Ronnie Hillman.

The Broncos decided to release Hillman last week. This decision ends a four-year stint with the team that most would consider uninspiring.

The former San Diego State Aztec was selected in the third round of the 2012 draft by the Broncos. The 5-foot-10, 195-pound running back came out of SDSU known for his quick bursts and electrifying big play ability. The Broncos front office hoped Hillman would give Denver the same multidimensional threat that haunted the Broncos for years in the form of former San Diego Chargers running back, Darren Sproles.

Unfortunately, Hillman never lived up to the hype. Hillman's four-year career with Denver provided Bronco fans with more head scratches than electrifying runs. Hillman was never able to find good rhythm with the pass-happy Peyton Manning offense, nor with the hybrid Kubiak/Manning offense.

Despite posting career highs last season in attempts, yards per game, average and touchdowns, the Broncos were reluctant to bring Hillman back for the 2016 campaign. Hillman finished the 2015 season an unrestricted free agent. Depth questions at the running back position prompted Elway and the Bronco front office to bring Hillman back on a one-year deal.

The Broncos gave Hillman a fair shot to stay on the roster this preseason but it quickly became apparent Hillman's job was on the line. The Broncos showed heavy preference towards starter C.J. Anderson and their coveted fourth-round draft pick, Devontae Booker. Hillman was eventually beat out by hometown favorite and former Colorado State Ram, Kapri Bibbs.

Ronnie Hillman will not be remembered as the leading rusher during the Broncos' glorious Super Bowl 50 run. Instead, he will be remembered as a high draft pick that never quite lived up to his potential. Add this disappointment with the fact that notable running backs taken in the 2012 draft after Ronnie Hillman include Lamar Miller, Bernard Pierce and pro bowler Alfred Morris. Not to mention perennial MVP candidate Russell Wilson was selected eight picks after Hillman. Bronco fans are assured to remember Hillman as what could have been, not what was.

This is a Fan-Created Comment on MileHighReport.com. The opinion here is not necessarily shared by the editorial staff of MHR.