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Peyton Hillis Signs One-Year Deal With Chiefs

Written By Bob Harris | fantasy football | Posted 14-Mar-12 @ 18:49 PT

The Kansas City Chiefs announced Wednesday via Twitter they have agreed to terms with former Browns running back Peyton Hillis. According to ESPN insider Adam Schefter, the one-year contract is worth $3 million.

"Appreciate all my fans in Cleveland for the support given to me in my time there. Can't wait to get back on the field and go to work in KC," Hillis tweeted Wednesday.

Hillis became a fan favorite with the Browns in 2010, when he emerged to lead Cleveland with 1,177 yards and nine touchdowns. He added 477 yards and two more scores through the air, turning heads league-wide and winning the "Madden NFL 12" cover-boy contest.

From there, however, things soured.

Hillis apparently fell victim to the "Madden Curse" in a disappointing 2011 season that was marked by his quarrel with Browns management over a new contract, his controversial decision to sit out a game with strep throat on the advice of his agent, a nagging hamstring injury that caused him to miss five straight games and his awkward rapport with teammates.

It was recently reported that Hillis considered retiring from the NFL in favor of a career with the CIA, which the 6-2, 250-pound back labeled as "ridiculous."

Hillis, 26, finished last season with 587 yards rushing, passing the 100-yard mark in just one game.

But as Profootballtalk.com's Evan Silva notes, Hillis has a coaching staff connection in K.C.

New Chiefs offensive coordinator Brian Daboll ran the offense in Cleveland during Hillis’ breakout 2010 season.

With Jamaal Charles returning from a torn ACL, the Chiefs will be able to field a Thunder and Lightning-style backfield duo.

And while all indications are Charles' recovery is on schedule (as is tight end Tony Moeaki's recovery from the same injury), Hillis can serve as the primary ball carrier as needed.

Either way, expect the team to revert to a run-heavy offense in 2012 under Daboll and new head coach Romeo Crennel.

Indeed, further evidence of that theory might be found in the fact the Chiefs will still have Chargers running back Mike Tolbert in for a free-agent visit this week. Watch the News and Views section of the site for developments on that front.