Packers 'poking around' Ronnie Hillman and other running backs, per report

The Green Bay Packers made their first and likely only splashy signing of the offseason on Monday, landing tight end Jared Cook on a one-year, $3.6 million deal. However, according to USA Today's Tom Pelissero, the team has also considered multiple free-agent running backs, including former Denver Broncos rusher Ronnie Hillman.

Hillman has spent the majority of his four-year career working within Denver's running-back-by-committee approach. His biggest season came in 2015, when he carried the ball 207 times for 863 yards and seven touchdowns, all team highs. Still, the cash-strapped Broncos did not have the available funds to retain him. Hillman has yet to sign with another team.

For the Packers, Hillman could have offered a different flavor to the backfield. The offense leans heavily on Eddie Lacy and James Starks, two between-the-tackles runners. Hillman conversely could add some breakaway speed and serve as another capable pass catcher.

Regardless, it appears unlikely that the Packers add Hillman or another unrestricted free agent at this point in the process. The team should receive a decent compensatory selection after losing Casey Hayward to the San Diego Chargers. Signing Hillman could put that pick in jeopardy.