Report: Knowshon Moreno could be released by Broncos

Are Knowshon Moreno's days in Denver numbered? (US Presswire)

Could Knowshon Moreno, the 12th pick of the 2009 draft, be released by the Broncos?

A report Sunday in the National Football Post says Moreno “may be a former Bronco before long.”

Writer Dan Pompei notes Moreno has not performed like the 12th overall pick and will count $3.28 million against the cap.

Moreno finished strong when he replaced the injured Willie McGahee -- winning AFC offensive player of the week for his 118-yard effort against the Ravens in Week 15 -- but still averaged a paltry 3.8 yards per carry last season.

A knee injury knocked Moreno out of the 38-35 double overtime playoff loss to Baltimore, where he ran for 32 yards on 10 carries and caught two balls for 21 yards. Rookie Ronnie Hillman came on to gain 83 yards on 22 carries and catch three passes for 20 yards.

In his four-year career, Moreno has averaged 4.0 yards per carry and never rushed for more than 1,000 yards in a season. The Georgia product has scored 22 touchdowns, lost eight fumbles and hasn't played a full season since his rookie year.

“Some question if he always has worked as hard as he should have,” Pompei wrote.

With the aging McGahee, Moreno and Hillman the only running backs under contract, Denver could draft one in April.

For more NFL news, rumors and analysis, follow @EyeOnNFL on Twitter, subscribe to our RSS Feed, watch Pro Football 360 daily at 3 ET and NFL newsletter. You can also follow Larry Hartstein @LarryHartstein.