Former Minnesota Vikings running back to sign with the Cowboys
By Josh Clarke
After a brief stint with the Minnesota Vikings in 2016, running back Ronnie Hillman will reportedly now be fighting for a spot on the Dallas Cowboys’ roster.
With a potential suspension for running back Ezekiel Elliott on the horizon, the Dallas Cowboys look set to add depth to their backfield. As reported earlier this morning by the always awake Adam Schefter, the Cowboys are finalizing the signing of former Minnesota Vikings running back Ronnie Hillman.
Dallas is signing veteran RB Ronnie Hillman, per source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) July 27, 2017
A sense: could be indication of concern over NFL decision on Ezekiel Elliott.
Hillman had an underwhelming stint in Minnesota last year appearing in five games, averaging a paltry 2.8 yard per carry behind a porous offensive line.
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Despite flashing potential as a receiving option, Hillman failed to live up to the promise he had shown in Denver, regardless of the blockers in front of him, and was released after Week 11.
Hillman was promptly claimed off waivers by the San Diego Chargers, reminding the league that he was still a viable ball carrier by performing admirably as a change of pace back in games against the Oakland Raiders & Kansas City Chiefs. We will be kind and ignore the six yard, nine carry performance Hillman had against the Cleveland Browns in Week 16.
Even if Elliott is suspended, Hillman will face an uphill battle to make the Cowboys’ roster as Darren McFadden and Alfred Morris are already on the payroll. His best chance to make an impact may be as a 3rd-down back, an area that Morris has noticeably struggled with in the past.
Next: Who should the Vikings extend next?
If he does take the field, Hillman should make more of an impact than he did in Minnesota, benefiting from running behind the second ranked offensive line in football as per PFF.