Denver Broncos: Champ Bailey dons his gold jacket
Arguably the NFL’s best cornerback and former player for Denver Broncos, Champ Bailey donned his gold jacket for the very first time.
In one of the most franchise-altering trades ever made, the Denver Broncos acquired cornerback Champ Bailey from the Washington Redskins in exchange for running back Clinton Portis.
It was with the Broncos that Bailey took his career to another level. Bailey became a model of consistency for tackling and shutting down a team’s top wide receiver. No matter who was lined up against him, he would make it a top priority to eliminate the threat immediately.
On Friday night in Canton, OH, Bailey showed gratitude to late Broncos owner Pat Bowlen and received his gold jacket.
https://twitter.com/Broncos/status/1157462148525764608
Bowlen will also be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame tonight. It took close to a full season or two for Bailey to buy into the system created by Bowlen. Bailey created the elite standard in the secondary for many years with the Denver Broncos.
Most consider his 2006 season to be the best among cornerbacks. In that year, Bailey registered 10 interceptions, 21 passes defended and five tackles for loss. One interception was a pick-six.
It is also still a debate whether Bailey should have won Defensive Player of the Year that season. There’s a legit argument for Bailey in that regard. However, his season is an accomplishment rarely seen anymore from defensive backs.
It is one of the many reasons why Bailey will go down as arguably the greatest defensive back in the NFL.
Not to be outdone is the person the Hall of Fame is getting in Champ Bailey. Bailey was a leader in the clubhouse and one who earned the respect of his teammates. His calm and fiery presence rubbed off on the rest of the team.
Bailey also played the game with grace and fluidity in how he performed on the field. Off-field is the same as on the playing surface. Bailey was an instant fan favorite and one who will stay that way forever. He accepted Broncos Country as one of his own. The fans, my guess, are grateful for any encounter with the Hall of Famer.
dark. Next. Which Broncos should be in the HOF next?
Canton did not just get a once in a generation player, but a once in a generation person as well.