The Vikings signed veteran free-agent running back Ronnie Hillman on Wednesday after learning Adrian Peterson is set to undergo knee surgery Thursday, the team announced.
Coach Zimmer announces the #Vikings have signed Ronnie Hillman.https://t.co/7bGt34fFAx pic.twitter.com/ltqCh1jrKW
— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) September 21, 2016
Hillman was released by the Broncos during the preseason after running for 863 yards and seven touchdowns on 207 carries last season. He was deemed expendable after C.J. Anderson took control of the starting spot in Denver and rookie Devontae Booker slid into the No. 2 spot.
Peterson likely will miss the next 3-4 months because of a torn meniscus, so the Vikings decided to add an experienced runner to compete against Jerick McKinnon and Matt Asiata.
MORE: Week 3 picks against the spread
During Wednesday's press conference, Vikings coach Mike Zimmer confirmed that McKinnon, who has only three carries for 8 yards this season, will start this week against the Panthers.
"I don't think many people think we can win this game," Zimmer said. "I don't think many people thought we could win the last game."
MORE: Week 3 NFL power rankings
Minnesota did win, however, as Sam Bradford made his Vikings debut count with a big home win against the Packers. Carolina's defense will be a tough test, but the Vikings are 2-0 and ready to compete.