Unlike some recent Broncos seasons, there may be several veteran surprises come cut day in September as a result of the depth at some positions.
With the team’s starting 22 all but locked in, the major intrigue during training camp, which begins July 28, will be competition for roster spots.
The Broncos will look at some veterans at positions that may include receiver, quarterback, offensive line and linebacker. They also are open to signing a veteran after June 1.
The following is a look at the Broncos’ areas where there will be the most competition for backup roles.
Running back
This will be the most watched position in camp after the events of Saturday night. Drafting former Ohio State star Maurice Clarett in the third round was surprising only because of the spectacle that acquiring Clarett brings.
But the Broncos had a need. If Clarett can regain the stardom enjoyed as a Buckeyes freshman in 2002, he will step in the mix behind second-year pro , who will enter training camp as the starting tailback. However, Bell had several injuries last year, so the team needs options. Last year, three players – , Bell and (since traded) – were the main tailback at times.
Griffin (knee) and (groin) are coming off injuries, and recently signed Ron Dayne will try to recapture his Heisman Trophy-winning form he rarely showed with the Giants. and , and perhaps Anderson, will play some fullback.
If this group stays healthy, it could be strong, and Clarett will get an opportunity as a rookie to play some. But a veteran or two is sure to be on the chopping block.
Secondary
The drafting of three cornerbacks – Darrent Williams, Karl Paymah and Domonique Foxworth – means two things:
One, the Broncos are preparing for the possible free-agent departure of right cornerback next year. The team likely will wait for the offseason to negotiate with Walls.
Two, it means incumbents , and will have to work to keep their jobs. Williams, a return specialist who likely will be the fourth or fifth cornerback, is a lock to make the team. Paymah and Foxworth would have to struggle to not make the team. Thus, a veteran or two could be gone.
At safety, and – who replaces (now with Detroit as a free-agent signee) – will start. Jeremy LeSueur, a third-round pick last year, will vie with veterans and to be backups. A dark horse could be Brandon Browner from Oregon State. Browner went undrafted because of a lack of speed, but he was productive with the Beavers and a solid hitter.
Defensive line
Major changes are coming.
Denver made headlines by bringing in four defensive linemen from Cleveland, signing end Courtney Brown as a free agent and acquiring tackles Gerard Warren and Michael Myers and end Ebenezer Ekuban in trades.
Brown will start at end with , who will return after missing 14 games because of a back injury last season. Warren will start at tackle and will play alongside a rotation that includes and (last year’s starting tackles) and Myers.
Veteran incumbents , , and also will compete for playing time.
With nine or 10 defensive linemen on Denver’s 53-man roster, there should be competition for the final spots. Some familiar names must have a strong and healthy training camp to make the cut after what should be tough competition.
Staff writer Bill Williamson can be reached at 303-820-5450 or bwilliamson@denverpost.com.
