The Denver Broncos have announced the signing of RB Garrison Hearst.

Ok, so Hearst is beyond his prime and probably won't last a full season if he starts. The good news is that this signing means Corey Dillon most certainly WON'T become a Bronco.

But, don’t get all panicky about the possibility of Hearst being signed to be our starting RB, Broncos fans. This quote from Ted Sundquist tells us all we need to know about Hearst’s real chances of starting;

“He obviously brings some depth to a position that lost a little bit of depth here in the offseason, and we're excited about his prospects both as a runner and a receiver.”

That is to say, he’s being signed as a change of pace / reliever guy, not as an expected starter.

And then later Sundquist says; “Or who knows? We may rotate.”

To be honest, the notion the Denver may use a “running back by committee” approach, while not unexpected, is not at all comforting. It says that, like me, they aren’t completely confident in the ability of the guys they have now, and are not positive they can come up with a stud in the draft.

Denver has a lot of middle of the road RB talent on hand right now. No way all of these guys can make the team. I believe that Shannahan and Sundquist are honestly happy to have Hearst, because of his leadership and his character. I agree. But I’m not sure he’s physically better than the rest of the stable.

Sundquist also confirms that Denver is not finished looking at FA and, more importantly, the draft to cover the RB position. As I've said before, there aren't any FA RBs worth signing. But the draft, now that's worth crossing your fingers for.

Will Hearst still be on the roster come opening day? Right now I’m betting that he won’t be, but we’ll see. He’s a good guy, he’s got no quit in him. Our locker room could damn sure use his influence. I won’t cry if I’m wrong about his chances of making the final cut.