Peyton Hillis: Rumors of CIA Career Interest Damage Chance of Long-Term Contract

The Cleveland Browns have finally taken a stand with Peyton Hillis.

Once considered a potential franchise-caliber running back, Hillis struggled both mentally and physically to stay on the football field in 2011. The fourth-year veteran battled injuries, for the most part, but also reportedly debated whether or not he wanted to continue playing football.

The lack of commitment to a profession that requires the highest level of commitment has not only cost Hillis himself a chance at guaranteed money, but it is extremely disconcerting for other teams.

ESPN's Adam Schefter reports that the Browns have decided not to place the franchise tag on the running back after his disappointing season.

Schefter also cites sources that one rumored career interest for Hillis this past season was the CIA.

Nobody joins the Central Intelligence Agency of the United States of America without knowing the commitment involved. While possible interest in serving his country is admirable, Hillis has done himself no favors when it comes to a future in the NFL.

If he truly wants to dedicate himself to football again, teams won't buy into it overnight and they won't offer him a multi-year contract, either.

The running back position has been devalued in the NFL in recent years and there certainly are a number of players who want to play in the NFL more badly than Hillis does. As talented as he is, teams can spend more money and guarantee more years to a player who'll give it his all every single week.

If Peyton Hillis wants to dedicate himself to football again in the NFL, he's very likely going to do so on a short-term contract with little guaranteed money.