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Broncos Headlines Week 12: Roster Moves, Snowy Weather, Charitable Contributions

By Rick Brown

This week has seen the Denver Broncos make roster moves, as they continue to build a championship-caliber team. Veteran running back Ronnie Hillman almost returned to Denver after he was cut by the Minnesota Vikings. While that acquisition fell through, they did add wide receiver Marlon Brown to the team. The moves on offense paired with the return of two key defensive players, Aqib Talib and Derek Wolfe, provide much-needed depth on the roster.

As The Roster Turns

Last year's leading Broncos' rusher, Ronnie Hillman, nearly returned to the team this week. After being cut by the Vikings (6-4), the Broncos made a waiver claim, but were denied the transaction because they were too low on the waiver wire. Hillman, who is familiar with the Broncos' offense, was expected to make the 2016 team. A poor outing in the preseason caused Hillman to drop down the depth chart. Without the carries, it was an uphill battle to make the squad. The Vikings needed depth after Adrian Peterson went down with a knee injury and Hillman was signed to the team in September. In five games this year, he has rushed for 50 yards and caught four passes for 43 yards. Hillman is now with the San Diego Chargers and should see some carries when Melvin Gordon needs a breather.

Additionally, the Broncos added depth to the wide receiver position by signing  Marlon Brown. Coach Kubiak and Brown have history from their time together in Baltimore. The fourth-year player caught 87 receptions for 891 yards and seven touchdowns in 38 games. Brown started this season in Broncos' training camp, but after suffering a back injury he was cut from the team. To make room for Brown, the Broncos waived cornerback Taurean Nixon, primarily a practice squad player.

Bundle Up, Sunday Evening Is Going To Be Cold With Snow Possible

It's no secret to Broncos' fans that the weather in Colorado can change in an instant. From bitter-cold games to unseasonably-warm winter games, the Broncos have witnessed how a shift in the weather can influence the game. Take for example the 2012 AFC Divisional playoff game that Denver hosted against the Baltimore Ravens. They struggled in the frigid conditions and were knocked out of the playoffs. The weather certainly played a factor in that game. While the weather Sunday will not be as extreme, it is worth noting that the weather could impact this highly-anticipated divisional match-up. It's possible that snow could be falling during the game, which would make for sloppy field conditions. Both teams struggle to run the ball, so if it does indeed snow, it will be interesting to see how each team adjusts to changes in weather.

Broncos' Players Give Thanks To The Fans

The Broncos capped off their week by giving back to their fans. A lot of families will have a turkey with plenty of sides to share this Thanksgiving thanks to the Denver Rescue Mission and a number of Broncos' players. Aqib Talib, Bennie Fowler and Vance Walker were just a few of the players who passed out turkeys and food boxes prepared for Thanksgiving. Together, the Denver Rescue Mission and the Denver Broncos provided food to about 1,600 families.

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