ENGLEWOOD, Colo. –Even though he did not practice this week and is listed as out for Sunday's game with the Chargers, cornerback Champ Bailey said Friday that he is "pretty close" to returning to the field.
Bailey said that when he aggravated his foot injury in Indianapolis he knew that it wasn't as severe as the initial injury, and he didn't expect to miss as many games as he did at the start of the season.
"It's really one of those things I got to practice a few days and get through it – get my confidence back in it," Bailey said. "That's really what it's based on – the pain and the confidence that I'll have in my foot."
He added that once he returns he won't hold anything back and that's the reason why he wants to make sure that he is as healthy as he can be before returning to action.
"If I still have that fear I won't go out there," Bailey said. "I'll make sure that my mind is right and I'm 100 percent committed to going 100 miles per hour every play. I can't see myself playing any other way."
Bailey has never missed more than seven games in a single season during his career but has missed six this season. In his two games played, he picked up eight tackles and three passes defensed in addition to picking off a two-point conversion attempt against Jacksonville.
Though he admitted that it was frustrating not being able to participate in live action, Bailey has remained involved on the sideline.
Bailey, who is in his 15th NFL season, said that when necessary he chimes in with his advice.
"If I feel like I need to say something I do," Bailey said. "If things are going smooth -- I'm definitely involved in making sure I stay on top of what's going on -- but things have been going pretty smooth so far. I expect that on Sunday and I definitely step in when I have to."
Interim Head Coach/Defensive Coordinator Jack Del Rio has taken note of Bailey's contribution on the sideline and said that his efforts have been helpful.
"He's still very engaged, very much a great, supportive teammate, helping guys on the sideline," Del Rio said. "He's doing what he can to help us win."
