John Lynch again was answering questions about his potential retirement Thursday when his friend and defensive backfield mate Champ Bailey walked by.
Bailey was informed that Lynch still was holding out on his future plans.
“That’s probably because he doesn’t know, either,” Bailey said with a big laugh. “So don’t feel bad for not knowing.”
In recent years, Lynch has said he has gone year-to-year about the future. But this year seems different. While Lynch said he still has a passion for the game, spending time with his four children also is intriguing to him. Lynch has had opportunities to pursue broadcasting jobs in recent offseasons and he’d likely have a similar chance should he retire now. At 36, Lynch appears to be considering the future more than in recent years. Thus, Sunday’s season finale against Minnesota could be his final game. Like Bailey said, Lynch doesn’t know that yet.
“I think I’ll take my time,” Lynch said about his pending decision. “I’ll sit down with Mike and discuss things, and sit down with my family and figure it out. I’ve tried to, in the middle of a frustrating year, I don’t think it’s the time to be making decisions like that. I try to play every game like my last. I don’t think this one will be any different.”
Bailey has said he hopes Lynch will return next year. The two joined the Broncos together in 2004, made three consecutive Pro Bowls together and have grown close. Still, Bailey said he will not become reflective on the possible retirement of Lynch while on the field Sunday. Bailey knows whether Lynch retires or not, there will be changes on the Broncos next season.
“It happens every year,” Bailey said. “Every year is different. You have friends, guys you’re close to, and they leave. It’s never fun, but it’s part of the game.”
Defensive back Domonique Foxworth said he’ll be interested to see what Lynch decides to do. It’s clear which way Foxworth is pulling.
“I have no idea what he’s going to do, but you always want to play with a guy like a John,” Foxworth said. “He’s an inspiration.”
Bill Williamson: 303-954-1262 or bwilliamson@denverpost.com
