VS. 
Both of these middle linebackers (EJ started on the outside) were chosen in the 2003 NFL Draft. Nick Barnett was chosen 29th overall by Green Bay in the 1st round out of Oregon State. Eleven picks later the Vikings chose E.J. Henderson who played his college ball at Maryland. Both linebackers immediately became integral forces in their respective defenses.
The similarities continue. They both missed significant time in 2008 for the first time in their careers. E.J.'s season was cut short after week 4 when he dislocated multiple toes and Barnett went down in week 9 with a knee injury. Of course we all know Henderson missed the last 4 games and playoffs of 2009 with a gruesome leg injury.
Now looking strictly at the statistics, Barnett's numbers are slightly better in each category but he has also played in 10 more career games (and also had more playing time in his first couple years than E.J.) While there are plenty of similarities between these two linebackers, there are also some differences. Nick Barnett has never been afraid to step up and fill a hole, but we look at him more as a smaller quicker guy. Someone more suited to cover a back out of the backfield and grab an interception. Nick has 9 career interceptions. Henderson on the other hand, is more of a hole stuffer. This guy like to create contact. It can be said that the only thing harder than E.J.'s hits, are his rock hard hands that have only gathered two interceptions in his career (both in 2006). He does, however, have 8 career forced fumbles to only two by Nick Barnett.
In comparison, these two linebackers are top notch and very underrated in the league, but I would have to give the edge to.........................
Z
The Samurai!!
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