The Denver Broncos are adding some backfield depth.

Jacob Hester was released by the San Diego Chargers in August. (courtesy Jeffrey Beall)

The team announced the signing of running back/fullback Jacob Hester Monday morning.  Hester was released by the San Diego Chargers in August.  He was their third round draft pick in the 2008 NFL Draft.

Hester and ex-Houston Texans running back Steve Slaton worked out with the Broncos last week.

In addition to Hester’s signing, the Broncos added RB Jeremiah Johnson to the practice squad.  Johnson was released by the Broncos a few days ago in a procedural move.

Hester’s signing over Slaton suggests the Broncos will keep Knowshon Moreno as the primary back until Willis McGahee returns from injury; the earliest that can happen is the AFC championship.  Hester is more of a short-yardage running and not an every-down type of back.

According to the team, Hester will wear No. 40.

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