4. Ronnie Hillman
The only reason Miller is higher than Hillman on this list is because he’s been slightly more productive in recent years, but one can argue he’s a better option and a better fit for the Jets.
Why?
First and foremost, money. Because Hillman hasn’t rushed for over 1,000 yards in a season yet and because he was surpassed by C.J. Anderson for the lead job in Denver this past season, he’s not going to be as expensive. But just because he hasn’t produced as much as Miller, doesn’t mean he doesn’t hold as much value as Miller.
Hillman (24) is younger than Miller (25), he’s going to come at a cheaper price and he’s going to bring the same skill set to the Jets offense. That is, a quick, shifty running back with pass-catching ability and the ability to run between the tackles.
If New York loses Bilal Powell in the next few days, they’re going to need a speedy running back who can catch the football to replace him. Hillman can be that running back, and he’ll be cheap enough that New York will still have ample cap space to use on other high-priority free agents.
