Hilliard battles for roster spot

[DolFan619]

http://www.missoulian.com/articles/2008/07/07/bnews/br19.txt

Hilliard battles for roster spot

Posted on July 7
By the Associated Press

KALISPELL - Lex Hilliard, the former Flathead High standout and record-holding University of Montana running back, will be taking a break at home this week before the Miami Dolphins' training camp begins at the end of July.

So far, he's endured mini-camps, two-a-day practices and studying playbooks next to veterans he once watched as a kid. Hilliard is optimistic about his chances of making the roster and says he's making the most of his time in the National Football League.

"It's not just one thing you have to work on when you're a professional," Hilliard said in a telephone interview with the Flathead Beacon. "I'm in the same room, trying to beat out guys I watched over the years you have to prove yourself."

In 2007, his collegiate senior year, Hilliard was a frontrunner to receive the Walter Payton award as the most outstanding offensive player in the Football Championship Subdivision. A shoulder injury derailed his chances. But at the NFL Combine Hilliard's stock rose when he finished third in the 20-yard shuttle, proving he had overcome his injuries.

Hilliard is one of five running backs vying for a spot on Miami's roster. With seasoned pros Ricky Williams and Ronnie Brown likely to be at the top of the depth chart, Hilliard has his work cut out for him.

Every day, he is up at 6 a.m. for breakfast, then weights or running. He eats, sleeps and breathes football, jockeying for a position in a crowded backfield.

He must also contend with the heat and humidity in Miami. So far, adjusting to the Florida weather has been his biggest test. But with storm season approaching, Hilliard has found some relief: It rains nearly every day at 4 p.m.

Hilliard was one of three UM players drafted in 2008. The Dolphins also picked Griz kicker and Helena native Dan Carpenter, while FCS national defensive player of the year and Hardin native Kroy Biermann went to the Atlanta Falcons.