Former Rams wideout Stedman Bailey is going back to school this fall.
Bailey is returning to his alma mater, West Virginia, to become a student assistant coach in Dana Holgorsen's staff.
After being shot twice in the head last November in Miami, it's been a long recovery back to the sidelines for Bailey. While he hasn't yet been medically cleared to play, he assisted his former Los Angeles teammates from the sideline during organized team activites. While there was originally some thought he'd have a role working with the Rams' coaching staff this upcoming season, he will instead be on the other side of the country in Morgantown.
"First of all, I would like to thank the Los Angeles Rams organization, my teammates, coach Jeff Fisher, general manager Les Snead and the ownership for the way they have taken care of me and my family since they drafted me," Bailey said in a statement. "They're a first-class organization and made me feel like part of the family, especially during the past few months, which have been a tough time."
The 2013 third-round pick will also enroll at West Virginia to finish his bachelor's degree in multidisciplinary studies.
"We couldn't be happier for Stedman and this opportunity he has to complete his degree and join West Virginia's coaching staff," Rams coach Jeff Fisher said. "His presence during our offseason program meant a great deal to his teammates, and his mentorship was invaluable to our young rookies. Stedman's ability to teach, and his remarkable drive and determination will serve him well at West Virginia, and we wish him and his family the best as they step into the next chapter of their lives."
Regarding a potential comeback to the gridiron, Bailey mentioned in the statement that his NFL career isn't finished yet, and that his upcoming gig in West Virginia will give him more time to heal.
