Could Saints Cut CB Champ Bailey?

Greg Bedard of Sports Illustrated writes that he would not be shocked if the Saints cut free agent acquisition CB Champ Bailey.

Bedard provided this statement under the heading “strong opinion that I may regret by November“,  but he does appear to believe it is plausible.

• Bedard notes that Bailey has looked stiff and has certainly lost a step.

Bailey is only guaranteed $500,000 on his contract, so the Saints would not take a huge hit should they cut him.

Bedard’s  observation was not a revelation however.  Bailey is 36, and the twelve-time Pro Bowler has played a lot of football in his 16 seasons.  The Saints had to be well aware of his declining athleticism when they signed him.  In that respect, Bailey could be seen as a good fit as a mentor to the young defensive backs in New Orleans.

The Saints are counting on contributions from younger players such as Corey White, Patrick Robinson and Stanley Jean-Baptiste.  It would take a great deal of confidence in those players to part ways with the veteran Bailey.