Steelers' Bailey earns team's rookie award
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
By Ed Bouchette, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
Linebacker Patrick Bailey, an undrafted player from Duke who was released twice by the Steelers this year, earned the rookie of the year award today.
Veteran safety Ryan Clark earned The Chief award, which goes to the player who most exemplified the spirit of cooperation with the local news media and is named after franchise founder Art Rooney.
Both awards were selected by members of the Pittsburgh chapter of the Pro Football Writers.
Bailey made his mark on special teams, but not before some bumps in the road. He was released before the start of the season, Aug. 30, and signed to the practice squad the next day. He signed to the 53-man roster Sept. 20 but was released Oct. 4. He rejoined the 53-man roster Oct. 25 and has been active since.
Despite missing four games while not on the roster, Bailey is tied for third on the team with 12 special teams tackles, eight of them solo.
First published on December 17, 2008 at 3:47 pm
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