Ronnie Hillman, the star running back who inspired the Denver Broncos to Super Bowl 50 victory, died on 22nd December 2022. The Broncos drafted Hillman following two standout seasons at San Diego State. During the teams’ triumphant 2015 season, Hillman led the Broncos in rushing with 863 yards.
Hillman’s family announced a day before his passing that Hillman was battling Renal Medullary Carcinoma (RMC). The statement read:
“[RMC] is a rare but highly aggressive neoplasm form of cancer that primarily affects young African Americans with sickle cell trait. Unfortunately treatment has not been successful and our beloved RJ is currently under Hospice Care where he’s being kept comfortable and out of pain.”
Hillman wasn’t dating or married at the time of his death
Hillman was single – there’s no information about a partner. Unlike fellow NFL stars, Ronnie had a secretive love life. In 2016, he was linked with Love & Hip Hop star Morgan Hardman, but the rumors were false.
The statement announcing Ronnie’s death described him as a ‘beloved son, brother & father’. Ronnie’s description as a father is surprising as there’s no other indication that Hillman had a child. However, given his intense secrecy, he may have welcomed a child covertly.
Ronnie’s family revealed that the football player was surrounded by loved ones when he passed:
“Ronnie quietly and peacefully transitioned today in the company of his family and close friends. We as the family, appreciate the prayers and kind words that have already been expressed. We ask that you would give us time to process our feelings as we prepare to lay our precious RJ to rest.”