National Football League

Broncos CB Bailey to miss opener

Published Sep. 4, 2013 1:00 a.m. ET

foxsports

Champ Bailey won't play in the Denver Broncos' opener against the Baltimore Ravens on Thursday night because of a sprained left foot.

The 15th-year pro was ruled out Wednesday. He hasn't practiced since getting hurt in a preseason game at Seattle on Aug. 17.

Denver will start Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie in Bailey's place alongside right cornerback Chris Harris with Tony Carter getting work at nickel.

Although Bailey was beaten twice by Ravens receiver Torrey Smith in the playoffs, his absence for the ''NFL Kickoff'' may prove less critical because Joe Flacco is without his top two targets from last season in Anquan Boldin (trade) and Dennis Pitta (hip).

Bailey plans to play against the New York Giants in Week 2.