After missing the first five weeks of the season, Denver's Champ Bailey is expected to make his 2013 regular season debut on Sunday against Jacksonville. Bailey is listed as probable on the injury report and Denver head coach John Fox said he will play.
Champ Bailey injury: Broncos CB ready to make 2013 season debut
Champ Bailey’s foot is finally healthy and the veteran cornerback will be back in the lineup on Sunday.
Justin Edmonds
“We’re excited to have Champ back, he’s had an outstanding week,” Fox said, via the team’s official website.
Bailey injured his foot in the second preseason game and has been out since. He returned to practice on a limited basis in Week 3, but hasn’t been active on gameday. He was a full participant in practice for the first time this season on Wednesday and practiced in full all week.
The 15-year veteran's return should provide a much-needed boost for Denver's defense. Despite their 5-0 record, the Broncos have struggled mightily against the pass. Denver is last in the NFL in pass defense, allowing 347 yards per game. Bailey's return comes a week after the Broncos allowed 470 passing yards against Dallas.
Bailey is expected to start against Jacksonville and his return will likely push Chris Harris into a nickel role with Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie starting opposite of Bailey.
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