Denver Broncos running back Ronnie Hillman is expected to start today against the New England Patriots despite battling a nagging shoulder injury.
"Denver Broncos running back Ronnie Hillman, who had been limited in Wednesday's and Thursday's practices because of a shoulder injury he suffered in Wednesday's workout, participated fully in Friday's practice," ESPN's Broncos reporter Jeff Legworld wrote.
"Hillman is formally listed as a probable for Sunday's game in Foxborough, Massachusetts, but he is expected to start against the New England Patriots and be available for his usual workload."
Montee Ball, the team's second-round draft pick last year, has been ruled out. Ball has been dealing with a serious groin injury that has sidelined him for the past month. However, he should be making his return in the near future.
"Running back Montee Ball will miss his fourth consecutive game Sunday because of a strained groin, but there is a chance he will return to practice next week on a limited basis," Mike Klis of the Denver Post wrote.
Even when Ball does return, which could still be a few more weeks, it is unlikely he will get his starting job back. Hillman, a 2012 third-round draft choice, has been sensational this season.
In five games this year, Hillman has gushed for 349 yards on 75 attempts (4.7 average) and two touchdowns. He has three straight double-digit fantasy games and appears to have gained the trust of Peyton Manning. The Patriots defense ranks just 35th in both rushing yards per game (13) and yards per carry (4.6), making today a very favorable matchup for the ascending Hillman.
Ball, meanwhile, has been disappointing in his limited action this year. Ball managed just 172 rushing yards on 55 carries for a 3.1 average and one touchdown in four games.
