Only 40 people turned out on Sunday for a fan-organized “Champ Bailey Rally” at Invesco Field in Denver.
Then again, that’s 40 more people that we’d expect on a cold, windy day in the middle of February. Fans wanted to show the team they wanted Bailey back, and the cornerback expressed appreciation for the gesture.
“Maybe this will help,” Bailey said Sunday via text to Mike Klis of the Denver Post. “Maybe we can get something done.”
Bailey has supporters among fans and media alike. There has been widespread support among Denver writers for the Broncos to bring Bailey back, which we understand. He’s a leader and still ranks among the best cornerbacks in the league.
That doesn’t mean it’s a good idea from the Broncos to re-sign Bailey.
He may be worth a short-term, Richard Seymour-like contract, but not with the Broncos. The Broncos are in rebuilding mode, and paying a 33-year-old cornerback huge money when the defense has so many problems doesn’t make a lot of sense. Will Bailey still be playing at a high level by the time Denver is contending for titles?
Letting Bailey walk would show that John Elway is not afraid to make tough choices with long-term goals in mind.
(Note: Photo provided by Josina Anderson of FOX 31 in Denver.)