The Facts: When the Broncos competed during the offseason workouts in gym shorts and T-shirts, Hillman was the team's No. 1 running back. When training camp opened, rookie Montee Ball and veteran Knowshon Moreno had not moved to the front of the line. The Broncos put the pads on and started knocking one another around for the first time Saturday. Three padded practices later, Hillman went into the camp off day Tuesday with his arm wrapped tightly around the starting running back spot.

Diehards Line: As Post staffer Mike Klis reminded readers, eventually, Ball is to be the featured back. His proven durability and production in his four seasons at the University of Wisconsin made him the team's second-round draft pick in April. The Broncos hope he develops into a 15- to 20-carry back in the NFL. But for now, Hillman is in the lead. "How it moves forward — we don't know enough about Montee Ball yet," HC John Fox said. "We know what style he has. I've been very impressed with his football character. And you do find out pretty fast at that position." Klis went on to suggest the fact that Hillman has maintained his No. 1 spot on the tailback depth chart speaks to his improvement in blocking for Peyton Manning. It'll be interesting to see if Hillman can fend Ball off once the exhibition season starts.