Ronnie Hillman Waived by Vikings: Latest Comments and Reaction

The Minnesota Vikings announced the release of running back Ronnie Hillman on Monday, paving the way to sign defensive end Stephen Weatherly from the practice squad. 

Hillman, 25, signed with the Vikings in September after Adrian Peterson suffered a knee injury. He rushed for just 50 yards on 18 carries, as the team never trusted him to fill a full-time role despite the struggles of Matt Asiata and Jerick McKinnon. 

It's been a disappointing 2016 campaign for Hillman, who just a year ago led the Denver Broncos in rushing yards (863) and touchdowns (seven). Denver released him after C.J. Anderson, Devontae Booker and Kapri Bibbs beat him out in a training camp battle.

It's unclear why the Vikings never gave him much of a chance. McKinnon (2.9) and Asiata (3.1) are both hovering around three yards per carry; Hillman has never had a full-season average of less than 3.9. Hillman also put together 62 total yards on eight touches in a Nov. 6 loss to the Detroit Lions, his most extended work of the season.

Despite his seemingly earning more work, the Vikings gave Hillman just six touches over the subsequent two weeks. With the Vikings offensive line struggling to protect Sam Bradford, it's possible Hillman's difficulties in pass protection limited his snaps.

Pro Football Focus measured him as the fifth-worst pass-blocker among running backs with enough snaps to receive an overall grade. McKinnon, who is seemingly re-established as the starter, is by far the best of the three in pass protection.

Hillman's release may also indicate Peterson is closer to returning than most expected. While many assumed he would miss the remainder of the 2016 season, Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk reported Peterson is aiming for a December return. He recently resumed light jogging, per Florio, and may wind up being available for the final couple of games in Minnesota's playoff push.

Follow Tyler Conway (@jtylerconway) on Twitter.