There was a time when the entire city of Cleveland lavished praise on their potent running back — a moment in time when Peyton Hillis even graced the cover of the Madden football series of video games. Those days are gone after the drama-filled, injury-riddled 2011 season. The Chiefs might have struck gold when getting Hillis to close on a one-year, $3 million deal that bolster the backfield while minimizing the risk.
The move was officially announced today by the Chiefs, and the team brass had plenty of positive things to say about their new running back.
"We are happy that Peyton decided to join us," said Chiefs Head Coach Romeo Crennel. "Peyton is a big, strong, physical back with a lot of talent and he should fit into our system well. We are looking forward to working with him and adding him into our offense."
"Peyton was a player we planned to target when free agency began," added Scott Pioli. "One of our goals going into free agency this year was to build depth at the running back position and we are pleased to add a talented player like Peyton to the mix."
Hillis rushed for 587 yards and 3 touchdowns in 2011.
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