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One thing you can count on with the Detroit Lions is that they are never, ever boring. Follow the latest news including injuries, roster moves and more here daily from Oakland Press beat writer Paula Pasche. Plus you'll find regular commentary about the team.

9/04/2014

Detroit Lions work out Champ Bailey


ALLEN PARK — Champ Bailey worked out for the Detroit Lions today (Thursday). 

Coach Jim Caldwell confirmed the tryout, but didn’t have much else to say about Bailey or any players who have been in for workouts this week.

Bailey, a veteran cornerback who is 36, was released on March 6 by the Broncos. He signed a two-year deal with the Saints in April, but was released on Saturday as the Saints made the final cuts to their 53-man roster.

“We worked him out, had a good look at him as well as several other guys. At this point we are where we are,’’ Caldwell said.

If the Lions signed Bailey before Week One, as a vested veteran his contract would be guaranteed. It’s possible they could wait and sign him in Week Two.

Bailey has been to a dozen Pro Bowls, the most of any cornerback. He was a first-round draft pick in 1999 by the Washington Redskins. He played with the Redskins through 2003 and then signed with the Broncos.

Rashean Mathis chatted with Bailey. He said he would bring wisdom and knowledge to the Lions.

“You can substitute for a lot of things but knowledge is not one of them,’’ Mathis said. “To have extra knowledge never hurts in any area.’’

Mathis and Darius Slay are expected to start in the regular season opener on Monday against the New York Giants.

Caldwell was asked if cornerback is an area of concern.

“I think we’ve got a great group of guys, we’ve got a group of guys who are extremely focused, who have talent,’’ Caldwell said. “They’re young, some need to get experience on the run, there are some with experience they’re going to have to play and play well which is what we anticipate. It’s also not a one-position game.’’


Jason La Canfora, the NFL insider for CBSsports.com, reported that the workout went well and the Lions have no immediate plans to sign him but could do so later.


If Bailey was to sign with the Lions, he would be the oldest player on the roster. Center Dominic Raiola, 35, currently holds that distinction.

Champ’s younger brother, Boss Bailey, was drafted and played his first five seasons with the Lions.

(Follow @PaulaPasche on Twitter. Order her book,  “100 Things Lions Fans Should Know & Do Before They Die’’ here. It’s also available at bookstores.)

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