After beginning his NFL career with the Denver Broncos, free-agent running back Ronnie Hillman reportedly decided to continue his career with the only franchise he's ever known.

Mike Klis of 9News reported on the agreement, noting it's a one-year deal.

On Sunday, Klis reported the Broncos were "hopeful they can return [Hillman] to their locker room," noting that negotiations between the team and Hillman had "heated up."

On April 10, Klis reported "the Broncos have exchanged contract proposals with the running back, according to two NFL sources," adding that "even if the Broncos do sign Hillman they are expected to select a running back with one of their 10 draft picks later this month."

Hillman hasn't quite hit his stride in Denver since the Broncos drafted him in the third round in 2012. The 24-year-old still has plenty of football ahead, and he doesn't have a lot of wear and tear due to a recent time share with Broncos Pro Bowler C.J. Anderson.

Despite splitting carries and starts with Anderson in 2015, Hillman still racked up 863 yards rushing on a solid 4.2 yards per carry and seven touchdowns. That productivity often came without a strong passing game.

But Anderson took over as Denver went on to win Super Bowl 50, while Hillman took a backseat in the postseason, gaining a mere 54 yards on 32 carries.