Ronnie Hillman Reportedly Released by Broncos

The Denver Broncos were reportedly looking to trade running back Ronnie Hillman before the start of the regular season but ultimately chose to release the running back on Saturday. 

Mike Klis of 9News reported the move.

Vic Lombardi of AltitudeTV reported Friday the Broncos were shopping the fifth-year ball-carrier.

The news doesn't come as much surprise. Hillman had fallen firmly behind C.J. Anderson and Devontae Booker on the Broncos' backfield depth chart and didn't seem to make much progress in changing that status despite averaging 6.3 yards per carry in limited duty during the preseason.

Nicki Jhabvala of the Denver Post passed along comments from the 24-year-old back following the team's preseason finale against the Arizona Cardinals on Thursday night. He received just three carries in the final exhibition.

"Whatever happens, happens," Hillman said. "I love to play here and if it works out that way, it works out that way."

Hillman led the Broncos in rushing during the regular season last year with 863 yards on 207 attempts (4.2 yards per carry) and seven touchdowns. He took a backseat to Anderson during the team's playoff run en route to a Super Bowl title, however.

He still opted to re-sign with Denver during the offseason. It always seemed he was on the outside looking in at a roster spot after the team drafted Booker in the fourth round.

Hillman is coming off a strong 2015 regular season, so he shouldn't have much trouble finding a new home.