Broncos cut Boss Bailey, extend Wiegmann
June 17, 2009
ENGLEWOOD, Colo. (AP)—The Broncos have released linebacker Boss Bailey(notes),bringing an abrupt end to the Bailey brothers reunion in Denver.
Also Wednesday, Denver signed Pro Bowl center Casey Wiegmann(notes) to an extensionthrough 2010.
Boss Bailey’s agent, Jack Reale, confirmed his client was releasedWednesday. Boss Bailey was signed last March, uniting him with his Pro Bowlcornerback brother, Champ Bailey(notes).
Boss Bailey played six games for Denver before a left knee injury ended hisseason in a game at New England on Oct. 20. He was placed on injured reserve andlater underwent microfracture surgery.
Reale said Bailey, who previously spent five seasons in Detroit, will asseshis next move once the knee is fully healed.
“Obviously, as a professional athlete, no one ever likes being released,”Reale said. “But he’s a veteran and a quality guy and understands the team hasto make certain decisions based on what’s best for the team. He was appreciativeof the opportunity.”
Wiegmann signed a veteran’s minimum contract last year to serve as TomNalen’s(notes) backup, but ended up starting the entire season after Nalen went oninjured reserve with a balky left knee.
The 35-year-old Wiegmann anchored an outstanding line that allowed only 12sacks, and he made the Pro Bowl along with quarterback Jay Cutler(notes) and receiverBrandon Marshall(notes).
Cutler forced a trade to Chicago after coach Josh McDaniels replaced MikeShanahan, and Marshall has also asked to be traded.
Wiegmann, who came over from Kansas City last March, has taken everyoffensive snap since 2001. His 127 straight regular-season starts are thelongest active streak among centers.
“Maintaining the continuity of our offensive line was a big priority forus, and we are very fortunate to have a Pro Bowl center like Casey Wiegmann aspart of this organization,” McDaniels said.
Wiegmann has also played for the Indianapolis Colts, New York Jets andChicago Bears.
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