Cleveland Browns running back Peyton Hillis hit the open market on Thursday as the NFL free agency period kicked off. Hillis was prepared to enter free agency when reports surfaced last month that the Browns would not use their franchise tag on the bruising running back out of Arkansas. Hillis had a tumultuous season to say the least, going through multiple agents and off-the-field drama centered around his contract and impending free agency.

It was expected that Hillis would meet with other teams early in the free agency period, and NFL Network's Michael Lombardi confirmed that on Thursday. Lombardi also added that Hillis may be seeking a short-term deal.

Via @MaryKayCabot:

#Browns RB Peyton Hillis could sign a short-term deal with another team in the next day or so, nflnetwork's mike lombardi reports

— Mary Kay Cabot (@MaryKayCabot) March 13, 2012

Cabot supplemented Lombardi's initial report, and added one team that Hillis will be meeting with specifically - the Kansas City Chiefs.

Via Cleveland.com:

Browns running back Peyton Hillis will visit the Chiefs, a source told The Plain Dealer today. In Kansas City, Hillis would play for former Browns coach Romeo Crennel. If all goes well on his visit, Hillis could sign quickly.

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