ENGLEWOOD, Colo. --Champ Bailey has been to 12 Pro Bowls -- the most of any defensive back in NFL history. So it's no surprise when a young cornerback lists him as an idol.
Third-round pick Kayvon Webster is no different.
"When I used to go to practice in college, I used to always come tell everyone that, 'Champ Bailey is here,'" Webster said in May. "He's my favorite corner. It's just a blessing to be able to be on a team with him."
But Webster isn't just settling for excitement to be on Bailey's team. He's taking full advantage of the opportunity.
Bailey said he and the rookie have had some one-on-one sessions, and Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie said Webster has stayed after practice with him to go over that day's work.
"He made sure he sat right next to Champ in the meetings," Secondary Coach Cory Undlin said last month. "He understands the situation that he's in, especially now to be with a guy like Champ and Dominique and now you've got Quentin Jammer in there. You've got three guys who have been in the league a long time. What an opportunity for that kid to be in that room and learn from three very, very successful players."
Rodgers-Cromartie said Webster "has really been putting in the time," something he hasn't always seen in younger players entering the league.
Defensive Coordinator Jack Del Rio has noticed the same thing and has seen all of Webster's extra work, both with his teammates and coaches, paying off.
"You can tell he's very serious in his approach," Del Rio said in June. "He really wants to be a good player. He comes in with size and speed. Comes from a smaller school, so maybe a little raw in terms of understanding concepts, but he's coming fast and he works very hard at it. So it will be fun to watch him as we get into camp as well."
During the initial rookie minicamp, Webster said he hoped his physicality -- which he believes comes from playing linebacker in high school -- could help him come in and make plays right away, whether that comes on defense or special teams.
That desire to get on the field no matter what is a trait that Bailey has appreciated.
"He is one of those guys that is here to play and learn as much as he can," he said. "He knows he is going to have to fight his way to get on the field, but when it comes down to it, he is going to do whatever it takes.
"I love that about him."
