Champ Bailey, Ryan Clady Named To USA Football's All-Fundamentals Team

Denver Broncos tackle Ryan Clady and cornerback Champ Bailey were named to USA Football's 2012 All-Fundamentals Team.

The team is comprised of twenty-six NFL players across 18 teams across the NFL and honors players - 11 offense, 11 defense and four special teams - who exhibit exemplary football techniques for youth players to emulate. USA Football is the sport's national governing body and is the official youth football development partner of the NFL and NFLPA.

The fourth annual USA Football All-Fundamentals Team recognizes NFL players who employ proper technique, particularly when blocking and tackling, which fosters inherent safety benefits and better on-field performance.

A fan vote at www.facebook.com/usafootball will determine All-Fundamentals Team captains. Fans may vote for one captain on offense, defense and special teams. USA Football will award each of the three captains a $3,000 equipment grant to donate and an All-Fundamentals Team helmet trophy. Voting is open through Jan. 21.

"Football never stands still, yet strong fundamentals are timeless," said CARL PETERSON, USA Football's chairman and longtime NFL executive who helped select the team. "According to medical experts, players who master the fundamentals and learn them at younger ages are safer as they progress within the sport.

"Many NFL players exhibit excellent fundamental skills, and those on this roster are extraordinary. We're proud to recognize them."

According to USA Football, the following are key fundamentals for a tackle - exemplified by Ryan Clady:

• Keep eyes up to scan the defense
• Keep pad level low for leverage
• Bend knees for power
• Stand Wide for balance

As for cornerback, Champ Bailey should be the definition:

• Keep eyes on receiver
• Disrupt route without interfering
• Run with receiver
• Take away inside route

Congrats to both players and to all that made the 2012 All-Fundamentals Team.