Champ Bailey will play Sunday

May 30, 2012; Englewood, CO, USA; Denver Broncos defensive back Champ Bailey (24) during organized team activities at the Broncos training facility. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

After fully participating in practice Wednesday and Thursday, Champ Bailey says he will be out there for Sunday’s game against the Houston Texans.

According to Gray Caldwell of DenverBroncos.com, both Broncos Defensive Coordinator says the team needs Bailey for his leadership role on the team.

Bailey, who was only played in three games all season, feels that his lack of playing time this season has made him fresher than he normally is at this time of the season.

Bailey specifically cited his fingers and shoulders as feeling less sore since he does not have the wear and tear of a full season under him.

Sunday’s game against the 2-12 Texans figures to be a great chance for Bailey to get his game legs and rhythm ready for the playoffs. If he’s able to play these last two games, Bailey will likely get another week of rest, as the Broncos will almost certainly get a bye for the first round of the playoffs.

This isn’t the first time this season where Bailey has been cautious to return to the field after an injury. Bailey suited up for the Week 13 game against the Chiefs, but was unable to finish the game. After taking extra caution in sitting out last week’s game, Bailey is sure that he feels ready to go Sunday.