CB Champ Bailey Returns to Practice for Broncos
June 11, 2013; Englewood, CO, USA; Denver Broncos defensive back Champ Bailey (24) during mini camp drills at the Broncos training facility. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
Cornerback Champ Bailey is considered a game-time decision for Thursday night’s matchup vs. the Baltimore Ravens, but he was back at practice on Tuesday, albeit in limited fashion.
Champ Bailey is in cleats, shells and has a helmet today. #Broncos
— Lindsay Jones (@bylindsayhjones) September 3, 2013
Bailey isn’t going to be rushed back after a foot injury he suffered in week two of the pre-season, but he is hungry to play in this game. The last time Bailey was on the field for a meaningful game, he and the Broncos’ secondary were torched by Torrey Smith and the Ravens.
The future Hall of Fame corner had a phenomenal Pro Bowl season leading up to that playoff game against the Ravens, allowing only two touchdowns all year, but then he appeared to implode against Smith who beat him deep for a couple of scores. He may have been banged up, but Bailey takes pride in every snap he plays, so he’s not going to go out there and limp around and be a weak link for the Broncos.
Still, the fact that he’s out there practicing is encouraging, even if he’s being limited. The Broncos are already going to be without Von Miller, so having Champ Bailey would be very, very nice.