Alex M. Rivera Athletics Hall of Fame
A native of Winston-Salem, NC, Charles Bailey, known as “Cowboy,” began his career in football at North Carolina Central University as a scholarship student-athlete from 1969-72, where he was a four-year starter.
His collegiate accomplishments include a unanimous vote for Team Captain, MEAC Champions, All-NAIA and Second Team All-Conference, all in 1972.
After college, he returned to his hometown of Winston Salem and joined the football staff at Winston-Salem State University (1975-80). Under the direction of head coach Bill Hayes, the Rams won several CIAA championships.
In 1981, Bailey left WSSU to join the NFL Scouting Combine, where he spent eight years. His experience primed him to move into the ranks of the world-renowned Pittsburgh Steelers; serving 10 years (1989-99) in senior positions in both college and pro scouting. Following their 1995 season, Bailey helped advance the Steelers to their Super Bowl XXX appearance. His role as a football administrator and senior executive continued with a stint as Assistant General Manager and Vice President, Football Operations with the New Orleans Saints (1999-2002), before joining the Jacksonville Jaguars. At the time of his induction, Bailey’s career encompassed more than 26 years and includes a wealth of scouting and front office executive management experience.
