University of Georgia Athletics
Boss Bailey chosen by Lions
April 26, 2003 | Football
April 26, 2003
FOLKSTON, Ga. -- It took longer than he expected, but Boss Bailey finally has an NFL home.
Watching the draft on television on Saturday with 300 family members and friends in his hometown, the Georgia linebacker was chosen 34th overall (the second pick of the second round) by the Detroit Lions. When the announcement was made, wellwishers swarmed him for handshakes and hugs and dozens of balloons were released into the air. Bailey had been projected as a first-round pick in most of the mock drafts, but apparently questions about his surgically repaired knees concerned some NFL officials. Bailey, however, has no doubts about his ability to play in the NFL.
"All I ever asked for was a chance to get into the league," Bailey said. "I'm just so excited and I can't wait to get up there and make some things happen. Some people talked about my health and I guess some people listened and got scared off, but I know that I'm fine and that I can play at the next level."
One person who doesn't need any convincing is Boss' older brother, Champ, a former Bulldog and currently a Pro Bowl cornerback for the Washington Redskins.
"I think Boss will do great in the NFL," said Champ, who just completed his fourth professional season. "I can't imagine him not succeeding. He works hard and he plays with a lot of heart. He'll do just fine in the NFL. I think the Lions got a great player."
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