Cornerback Champ Bailey just completed his 12th season in the NFL. He was drafted by the Redskins and got traded to Denver straight up for Clinton Portis, and he’s spent the past seven seasons with the Broncos. Bailey was named to the Pro Bowl every single year in the past decade except for the 2008 season when he got hurt, and he’s a three-time All-Pro. Now, the defensive back’s contract has expired making him a free agent.
Champ has already spoken in a subtle way, placing his Colorado home for sale. Perhaps Bailey’s action sparked movement within the Denver front office, because John Elway said Thursday the team was working on a new contract for Champ. Another group that wants its voice heard is the fans, and they’ve planned a rally for Sunday to show their support of Bailey.
Predominantly Orange brought the news of the fan rally to my attention, and it appears as if the movement was started on Facebook. On the group’s page, they say “If Champ or the Broncos have not come up with a deal by Sunday, lets get as many people as possible to rally on the south side of the stadium. … Come wearing your Broncos and Champ jerseys. Make some signs. We need to try and convince Champ to stay here.”
It’s a pretty noble cause by the fans, but I’m guessing it won’t affect Champ’s decision much. This is his last chance to sign a big contract and he knows it. If Denver doesn’t offer the kind of money he thinks he’s worth, it doesn’t matter how much love the fans show. Besides, the last time the fans put together a rally we all saw how it turned out.
