The Facts: Following up on the ongoing story. ... Hightower is the most complete running back on the roster, and he’s positioned to be the starter if he’s fully fit.

Diehards Line:So wrote Times beat reporter Rich Campbell, joining a majority of those who cover the Skins on a daily basis in the opinion that Hightower is the likely starter if at all possible. ... Hightower was limited in mini-camp last month. Now that he’s more than eight months removed from ligament reconstruction surgery, coaches could ease him back into a full workload as camp progresses and have him ready for the regular season. According to Campbell, Hightower’s health is important because there are questions about Roy Helu and Evan Royster, the other two running backs competing for significant playing time. Helu wore down physically after he became the starter and better fits in a third-down/change-of-pace role. Royster lacks the big-play explosiveness of Hightower and Helu, but still he finds yards. HC Mike Shanahan likes to rotate backs and play whoever is hot. As Campbell summed up, a healthy Hightower would be a significant boost to a group that must take pressure off the rookie quarterback.