Jets, Cards Join Chase for Champ

The Kansas City Chiefs and Detroit Lions have already been named as possible suitors for Washington Redskins cornerback Champ Bailey, and now the New York Jets are showing signs of joining in on the bidding. According to the New York Times, the Jets have inquired about what it will take to get the four-time Pro Bowler as part of a sign-and-trade deal. Jets officials plan to meet with Bailey's agent, Jack Reale, at this week's NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis.

The Arizona Cardinals have also expressed an interest. Rod Graves, Cardinals vice president of football operations, told the Arizona Republic that he plans to talk with Washington's personell people this week at the combine.

On a related note, the Washington Times indicated that the Redskins might place the franchise tag on Bailey in the coming days to push trade talks with other teams. Moving Bailey would free up $6.8 million in cap space allowing the Redskins to, once again, be aggressive in the free-agent market. Mentioned as being at the top of owner Dan Snyder's list are Jaguars quarterback Mark Brunell, Titans defensive end Jevon Kearse, and Buccaneers defensive tackle Warren Sapp.