It's been a long and strange season for Denver Broncos cornerback Champ Bailey. But it might just right itself, just in time.
Bailey has been a full participant in practice since Thursday two weeks ago, but he was still listed inactive over the past two games. That will change this Sunday. Today, Bailey proclaimed himself "ready to go," according to Denver Broncos Manager of Team Media Chris Hall.
Champ Bailey just now during his presser, "I'm ready to go."
— Chris Hall (@BroncosTV) December 19, 2013
Bailey, who turned 35 in June, suffered a foot injury in the preseason that has kept him off the football field for most of the year. It was originally thought that injury would knock Bailey out for a handful of weeks; instead, Bailey has missed all but three games. Those games weren't consecutive, either - Bailey played in Weeks 6, 7, and 13 of this season, and played less than half the snaps in Weeks 7 and 13.
Some have suggested it is time for Bailey to make the switch to safety, but there has been no such indication that is taking place from the Broncos this season.
#Broncos CB Champ Bailey, when asked whether he was thinking about retiring: "Oh, no. I'm thinking about winning on Sunday."
— Andrew Mason (@MaseDenver) December 19, 2013
Denver's defense is ranked 24th in the NFL in scoring and 28th against the pass. A healthy Bailey - even one at 90% of his abilities from 2012 - would provide a big jolt to this Broncos defense.
Hopefully, this time, Bailey's return sticks.