New Orleans Saints confirm Champ Bailey will play cornerback in 2014

Oct 13, 2013; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos cornerback Champ Bailey (24) before the game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 13, 2013; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos cornerback Champ Bailey (24) before the game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports /
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Oct 13, 2013; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos cornerback Champ Bailey (24) before the game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 13, 2013; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos cornerback Champ Bailey (24) before the game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports /

The New Orleans Saints signed Champ Bailey earlier this month and it led to a lot of speculation about where he would be playing. The Broncos and every team prior had played Bailey at cornerback but aged corners tend to retreat to the safety position when they near retirement.

Bailey is nearing retirement — some may say he’s already there — but a move to safety is not in the cards. This isn’t coming from some random source in the locker room, it’s commuting straight from the top with general manager Mickey Loomis.

Per PFT.com:

"Bailey has found a home in New Orleans, but he won’t have to learn how to play a different position. General Manager Mickey Loomis said Wednesday that the Saints intend to use Bailey at cornerback only."

The move was expected to happen and the Saints can use all the corner help they can get. With the Falcons offense looking to rebound and the Buccaneers offense looking to make a name for itself, the Saints only easy divisional game seems to be the Panthers wide receiver-less attack.

Bailey playing safety may have worked out, but he’ll remain at the only position he’s ever known and a position he’s long since mastered.