2014 Broncos Initial Depth Chart: Captain Buried Too Deep?

The Denver Broncos’ first depth chart of the 2014 season has been released, and although there are no jaw-dropping surprises there are a few eyebrow-raisers. One of the first things to catch my eye as I scrolled through the positions was five-year veteran and 2013 special-teams captain David Bruton being listed as the 3rd team safety along side relative unknown John Boyett.

Jan 12, 2014; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos safety David Bruton (30) against the San Diego Chargers during the 2013 AFC divisional playoff football game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Bruton has been a fan favorite in Denver since his arrival thanks to his selfless play and tireless contributions to the community, but will that be enough to keep him on the roster for the regular season?

Bruton, a Notre Dame product, has appeared in 77 of his 80 career games since being drafted in the 4th round by the Broncos in 2009, but has made only three starts. With the addition of free agent prize T.J. Ward along with the return of a healthy Quinton Carter for the first time since 2011, the Broncos’ defensive backfield is crowded. Throw in the emergence of Duke Ihenacho and the conversion of Omar Bolden from cornerback to safety in 2013 and the safety picture gets even cloudier (Bolden is listed as a 3rd team CB on the depth chart).

Despite being an alternate for the 2012 Pro-Bowl as a special teamer, Bruton may be one of those tough calls that has to be made if he can’t jump either Carter or Ihenacho during pre-season action. He’s made 39 special teams tackles in his career but has just one interception and six passes defensed. With all the young talent that is clogging up the back end of the Broncos’ roster, we may be looking at David Bruton as an unexpected training-camp casualty.

What do you think?