Training Camp Battle Preview: Bernard Pierce and DeAngelo Henderson

The Denver Broncos open up with training camp on July 27th at Dove Valley. Every year once training camp approaches, position battles have already begun.

This year, the staff at Predominantly Orange will analyze certain position battles that we look forward to seeing during training camp. We will start it off with a spot on the Broncos depth chart at running back.

The position battle that will be interesting to watch will be between Bernard Pierce and DeAngelo Henderson. Seasoned veteran versus Rookie Draft Pick.

When analyzing both of these prospects, I thought into great detail about longevity and sustainability. If you look at the position based off of these two elements, the advantage goes to DeAngelo Henderson.

Entering his fifth year in the NFL, Pierce is focused on getting back on his feet. He was signed to a futures contract back in January.

While it’s a longshot for Pierce to break into the top two on the depth chart, he could provide the Broncos with depth given the injury history of CJ Anderson and Jamaal Charles.

Simply put, the Broncos have depth at the position with Anderson, Charles, and second year tailback Devontae Booker who appears poised for a breakout year. What does the additions of Bernard Pierce and DeAngelo Henderson mean for the Broncos?

This camp battle may indicate who earns a roster spot through the Broncos practice squad this season. Henderson was selected in the sixth round at the 203rd overall pick for the Broncos.

Pierce played previously for the Ravens and won a Super Bowl ring behind Ray Rice. When Ray Rice was released due to a domestic violence incident, Pierce started for the Ravens in 2014 before being released after failing a field sobriety test.

Both Henderson and Pierce have chips on their shoulders and will compete. Pierce reportedly performed well during OTAs according to some in the Denver media.

Henderson’s explosiveness and footwork are what stands out to coaches and guys in the media as well.

Writers Take: Denver Broncos Tailback Depth Battle

My belief is that DeAngelo Henderson will get the nod and make the practice squad over Pierce. Henderson is entering his first season and Pierce is entering his fifth. Pierce has struggled with an injured hamstring over the last year and a half and the Broncos already have enough concerns at health with their tailbacks.

Next: Denver Broncos Training Camp Preview: Quarterbacks

Ideally I believe the depth chart will be as follows:

1: CJ Anderson

2: Jamaal Charles

3: Devontae Booker

4: DeAngelo Henderson

What are your thoughts Broncos Country?