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Published on 07/16/2008 at Wed Jul 16 14:20.
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Denver Broncos Sign Rookie Peyton Hillis

Posted Wed Jul 16th by

Peyton Hillis

The Denver Broncos and 2008 draftee Peyton Hillis agreed to terms on Tuesday, making Hillis the fifth draft pick the Broncos have signed this year. Per club policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Hillis, a fullback from Arkansas, was drafted by the Denver Broncos in the seventh round (227th overall) of the 2008 NFL Draft. At Arkansas, Hillis plowed the way for two tailbacks who became first round picks: Darren McFadden by the Raiders, and Felix Jones by the Cowboys. Hillis also made marks of his own, earning school records for career receptions, reception yards, and reception touchdowns among running backs, as well as single season running back records in receptions and reception yards in 2007, leading his entire team in those categories.

The Broncos have now signed all of their draft picks in the 5th, 6th, and 7th rounds. They will continue to work on the 4 remaining rookie contracts before the players report for training camp on Thursday, July 24, 2008.

Among seventh round picks, Hillis’ opportunity is rare: he has an opportunity to compete for a starting job with incumbent FBs Cecil Sapp and Mike Bell.

I really like this kid – I’m glad we got this deal done. He has great hands, and just needs to work on his blocking to earn the starting spot. Your thoughts in the comments.

  • http://www.broncotalk.net Josh Temple

    Good news, one of the picks I’m excited about. Now we just need to see him take a screen pass 45 yards a la a an Eddy Mac, finger pointing block.

  • http://broncos-denver-broncos.blogspot.com/ Ian Henson

    Finally… of all the rookies, I’m most excited about Peyton Hillis. I don’t know why, I just associate him with what Denver has been lacking for some time.

    Hope that he’s practicing his Mile High Salute, I know it’s way too early to call that type of potential, but give me a break, I’m excited.

  • sirsam

    Is it Sunday yet? ;)

  • http://broncotalk.net Kyle

    No kidding. I’d settle for “next Thursday” at this point sirsam. :)

  • HogBlog

    We got a steal here! Highest rated FB in NCAA, playing in the toughest conference to boot(SEC). Leading the way for 2, 1000 yd rushers. All the BS you read about durability is just that…BS. He’s big, he’s fierce, he’s a powehouse! I’ve watched him from Day 1, and all he’s done is make the Ark running game, the envy of the NCAA. And to get him in the 7th is ridiculously fortunate.

  • Richard

    I’ll be paying close attention to a number of rookies, and Hillis will be one of them. Love to see Cutler throw him a swing pass and see what he does with it. Wouldn’t it be nice to see a real FB for a change.

  • Rick

    i believe the paving the way for Dmac and Felix is a little over rated. He’s a better receiver and a not so good a blocker, I think.