San Diego Chargers claim former Aztec RB Ronnie Hillman

The Chargers have bolstered their RB corps by claiming Ronnie Hillman off of waivers.

The former Denver Bronco had been picked up by the Minnesota Vikings in mid-September to add depth after the loss of Adrian Peterson. Over the course of 5 games, Hillman rushed 18 times for 50 yards (2.8 YPC), in addition to catching 4 balls for 43 yards. During his four years in Denver, Hillman was a platoon running back who had many chances to take over the starting role but struggled with fumbles. He started 11 games in 2015 and ran for over 800 yards. Locals will also remember Hillman as a former Aztec who amassed over 3,000 yards and 38 TDs in two years.

The casualty of the pickup, Griff Whalen, never made his mark in San Diego. Picked up in September after Danny Woodhead was lost for the season, Whalen saw time at returner and some WR looks over the past 3 games. He totaled only 2 catches and will be better remembered as a target of Philip Rivers’ displeasure after a number of incorrect routes led to incompletions or interceptions.

The Chargers had been carrying 7 WRs, with just 2 RBs after the non-football injury to Dexter McCluster.