What It Means:

Booker was prematurely handed the backup role by a collection of beat writers prior to camp, but it's Hillman who has logged more reps with the second-team. Recent reports out of Broncos camp now seem to imply the rookie has been a bit inconsistent with up and down performance. Booker is still the superior talent and should have the advantage over Hillman for the second running back gig, but C.J. Anderson's role as a feature back is the only thing for certain behind center in Denver.

Hillman remains a top-50 back until we see otherwise. Our algorithms project him for 168 rushes for 651 yards and 3.81 touchdowns, as well as 23 receptions for 138 yards this upcoming season. We have Booker pegged for 81 rushing yards on 21 carries with 0.24 touchdowns, in addition to 102 yards and 0.31 scores through the air on 12 receptions.