Yes, the New England Patriots appear to be much healthier than the most recent time they played the Broncos, but the Broncos have one significant medical upgrade going for them:
Champ Bailey is feeling as good as he has all season.
“That definitely wasn’t the case the last time we saw them,” Denver’s all-pro cornerback said Tuesday as his 13-3 team prepared for Saturday night’s playoff game. “I can’t tell you how much better I feel now compared to back then.”
Denver’s 28-20 victory over the Patriots on Oct. 16 was Bailey’s first game back after missing two-plus games with a hamstring injury. He left with the Broncos leading 28-3.
“I gave everything I had in that game in the first half,” Bailey said. “It was hard.”
Bailey, who has dealt with a separated shoulder this season, said he has felt strong for more than a month.
“I feel as good as I have all season,” he said. “I’m really ready for them this time.”
Meanwhile, rookie cornerback Darrent Williams continued to practice. Williams has maintained for the past week that he will play but won’t be at full strength. Williams estimated he is at “67 percent” health and will play in a reserve role.
Bruschi looks ready
There was one name missing from the Patriots’ injury report: Tedy Bruschi. The veteran linebacker, who has a calf injury, was dressed but didn’t play last weekend against Jacksonville.
Tuesday, all 12 players on New England’s injury report were listed as probable. During the brief part of the Patriots’ practice that was open to the media, Bruschi was seen moving well.
Eleven players listed on the injury report missed at least some of Tuesday’s practice. Quarterback Tom Brady, who has a shoulder injury, was the only player to go through the entire practice.
Kubiak update
Houston has completed seven interviews for its head coaching job, and there still are strong indications the Texans are waiting to extend an offer to Broncos offensive coordinator Gary Kubiak. He interviewed with Houston officials Friday in Denver.
Houston is expected to make a decision about Kubiak shortly after Denver’s season is over.
Kubiak also interviewed with Detroit, which is considering several other candidates.
Bill Williamson can be reached at 303-820-5450 or bwilliamson@denverpost.com.
