Former Denver Broncos cornerback Champ Bailey has offered advice to the team’s current head coach, Sean Payton, on how to achieve Super Bowl success. Bailey emphasized the importance of securing the AFC West division title from the Kansas City Chiefs, who have dominated it for several years. “The Chiefs have owned this division for the past seven, eight years,” said Bailey, now an analyst with TNT. “That’s the start. Secure the division.”
Bailey believes that winning the division is crucial for gaining confidence in the playoffs and securing a home game advantage at Mile High Stadium. He noted that no AFC West Wild Card team has won more than one postseason game since John Elway’s 1997 Broncos. Since Peyton Manning’s retirement in 2016, six AFC West teams have made it to the playoffs as Wild Cards but collectively achieved only one win.
“So for me, that’s the start. Secure the division,” Bailey said. He expressed confidence that Payton is focusing on this goal in private meetings with his team and players.
Bailey also shared his thoughts on quarterback Bo Nix and emphasized the need for a strong running game to support him. “How do you help a young quarterback? I mean, you’ve got one of the better offensive lines in the league, so you’ve got to protect him,” he said.
The Broncos’ success under Payton when rushing for 125 yards or more in a game was highlighted by Bailey as a key factor in their performance. He pointed out how teams like Buffalo and Baltimore use their running games to relieve pressure on their quarterbacks.
Bailey concluded by stressing that winning divisional games should be a priority before focusing on other opponents in the AFC. “Win the division first. Let’s get that done,” he urged.
Champ Bailey had an illustrious career with 908 tackles and nine Pro Bowl selections during his time as a cornerback.
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