NFL notes: Champ Bailey retires a Bronco

Champ Bailey said goodbye to the NFL on Tuesday after signing a ceremonial one-day contract with his beloved Denver Broncos.

Bailey retired at age 36 with a cornerback-record dozen Pro Bowl selections, more interceptions (52) than any active player and no regrets.

“Until my last snap I tried to be the best on the field,” Bailey said. “We all get old in this game.”

In addition to John Elway, John Fox and Joe Ellis, dozens of current players joined former teammates including John Lynch, Brian Dawkins and Jake Plummer in celebrating Bailey’s unparalleled career that ended because of a left foot injury.

“I need my feet,” Bailey said afterward. “It’s like a quarterback and his arm.”

Bowman practices

49ers linebacker NaVorro Bowman was scheduled for his first practice of the season, officially opening a 21-day window during which the team can decide whether to activate him or send him to the injured reserve list.

The three-time All-Pro sustained a major injury to his left knee in last season’s NFC Championship game against the Seattle Seahawks. But he has been a constant presence at the 49ers training facility and has been engaging with his teammates as though preparing for every game.

Around the league

The Saints have placed rookie Brandin Cooks, their second-leading receiver, and starting free safety Rafael Bush on injured reserve, ending their seasons. … Jonas Gray has been given 2 more yards rushing by a scoring change that makes him the third Patriots player with more than 200 in a game. The change by the NFL brings his total to 201 in the fourth game of his career, a 42-20 win over the Colts. … The Panthers have released veteran wide receiver J ason Avant and placed starting right tackle Nate Chandler on injured reserve with a right knee injury. … Panthers coach Ron Rivera says he’s “probably” given up hope of Greg Hardy playing this season following the NFL’s decision to suspend Vikings running back Adrian Peterson for the remainder of the year. Hardy, a Pro Bowl defensive end, was placed on the exempt-commissioner’s permission list Sept. 17, two months after being convicted on two counts of domestic violence. … The Steelers have released running back LeGarrette Blount. … The Browns have waived disgruntled running back Ben Tate.