The Broncos’ top two running backs are both dealing with injuries, but one of them will be ready to play Sunday at New England.
Ronnie Hillman, who has been taking it easy in practice since suffering a shoulder injury on Wednesday, is listed as probable and will start against the Patriots. That’s good news for Denver, as Hillman has played very well and the Patriots’ run defense has struggled.
But Broncos starting running back Montee Ball is at least a week away. Hillman took over the starting job when Ball suffered a groin injury on October 5 against the Cardinals, and Ball told the Denver Post that he’ll try to practice next week but isn’t sure how much he can do.
“We’ll see,” Ball said. “I listen to our trainers. I’ll be back soon, though. I’m feeling a lot better.”
The bad news for Ball is that Hillman has out-played him. Even if Ball is healthy in a week, Hillman may keep the starting job.
