Denver Broncos running back Knowshon Moreno is making sure people do not count him out just yet. The four-year veteran was originally thought to be trade bait at one point this offseason after a slew of injuries hampered his overall production on the field, but after a strong training camp the running back could be poised to earn the starting role. As one of Denver's younger backs continues to drop off the depth charter, Moreno is looking to move up.
Ronnie Hillman originally entered training camp as the favorite to win the starting job. Head coach John Fox was impressed with the young back during offseason workouts, but recent issue with fumbling has seen a drop in reps.
Hillman has fumbled a few times throughout the preseason. Fans are starting to worry that the second-year back is not ready for an increased role, but Fox has not lost his faith just yet.
"I personally thought his progress was stopped; otherwise he's got to get on the ground faster or do a better job of holding onto the ball when guys yank on him late in the down," Fox said. "Again, every one of these things is a learning experience for these guys. I think he will work on it, so I have not lost confidence in him whatsoever."
Despite the kind words, Moreno is now reaping the benefits of increased reps and impressing. The Denver Post reports Moreno might not be the fan-favorite choice, but his experience and improvement make him the likely winner of the running back race. The Broncos have too many other great players, to let one running back ruin their chances. The more Hillman fumbles, the more he remains out of contention.
Quarterback Peyton Manning is slowly losing trust in Hillman, leaving things to Moreno and Montee Ball. The Broncos continue to increase Ball's role as he develops into a strong blocker and Moreno has the speed to make him a great option. Hall is seeing the writing on the wall. It is hard to miss.
"Definitely, when you put the ball on the ground, and you have guys like Montee and Knowshon running the ball as well as they did tonight and Lance (Ball) -- it kind of affects your competition," Hillman said. "It's unacceptable -- what I did, and I just have to work on it."
Overall, the Broncos have displayed a lot of sloppiness on offense throughout the preseason. While they continue to build chemistry on the offensive line, the wrinkles continue to get worked out. Fox might not be losing faith in Hillman, but if the turnovers continue he might have no choice but to limit his work.