Levelle Bailey Bio
Levelle Bailey is an American professional football linebacker for the Denver Broncos of the National Football League (NFL). Born on December 4, 2000, in Sacramento, California, Bailey played college football for the Fresno State Bulldogs from 2019 to 2023. He was signed by the Denver Broncos as an undrafted free agent in 2024 and has competed for a roster spot while developing his skills at the professional level.
Early Life and Background
Levelle Bailey grew up in Sacramento, California, as the son of Lester Bailey and Diana Tapa. His father is African-American while his mother hails from Tonga, making Bailey of mixed heritage. He has six older siblings who helped shape his upbringing in the California capital.
Bailey attended Luther Burbank High School where he excelled in both football and basketball. He earned first-team All-City honors in each sport during his high school career. On the football field as a senior, he recorded 81 tackles and 7.0 tackles-for-loss, earning second-team all-state recognition. His defensive prowess was further demonstrated at the Optimist All-Star Classic game where he blocked two kicks, showcasing the versatility that would define his playing style.
Path to Professional Football
After an impressive high school career at Luther Burbank High School, Bailey received scholarship offers from multiple college programs. He ultimately chose to continue his academic and athletic journey at Fresno State University, committing to play for the Fresno State Bulldogs football program.
During his collegiate career spanning five seasons from 2019 to 2023, Bailey developed into one of the Mountain West Conference’s most consistent linebackers. He appeared in 58 games total, steadily improving his statistics and leadership abilities with each passing year. His progression from a true freshman contributor to team captain demonstrated his dedication to the sport and his capacity for growth as both a player and person.
Levelle Bailey Career
Fresno State Years (2019–2023)
Bailey began his college career at Fresno State in 2019 as a true freshman and made an immediate impact. He started five games and recorded 30 tackles with six tackles-for-loss, showing promise as a disruptive force in the middle of the defense. This strong debut established him as a key piece of the Bulldogs’ defensive rotation for years to come.
His sophomore season in 2020 saw him start five more games despite a shortened campaign. He posted 21 tackles and earned honorable mention All-Mountain West Conference recognition. The 2021 season marked a breakout year as Bailey started 12 games and finished third on the team with 56 tackles. He added 8.0 tackles-for-loss, 3.5 sacks, two interceptions, and six pass breakups, earning another honorable mention All-MWC selection.
Senior Season and Leadership (2023)
In his final collegiate season, Bailey served as a team captain, reflecting both his on-field production and intangible leadership qualities. He recorded 82 tackles, 2.5 sacks, five tackles-for-loss, and three interceptions. His exceptional performance earned him second-team All-Mountain West Conference honors, the highest recognition of his college career.
Bailey saved his best performance for last, leading the Fresno State Bulldogs to victory in the 2023 New Mexico Bowl. He was named the game’s Defensive MVP following his standout performance. At the conclusion of his college career, he received invitations to the Hula Bowl and East-West Shrine Bowl, all-star events featuring top senior prospects. He finished his Fresno State tenure with 277 career tackles, 25.5 tackles-for-loss, seven sacks, and six interceptions across 58 games.
Denver Broncos Journey (2024–Present)
After going unselected in the 2024 NFL Draft, Bailey signed with the Denver Broncos as an undrafted free agent. He competed aggressively during training camp and the preseason, making the initial 53-man roster. In the Broncos’ preseason finale against the Arizona Cardinals, he returned an interception 94 yards for a touchdown, displaying the playmaking ability that had characterized his college career.
However, the roster moves continued as Bailey was waived on August 29, 2024, after initially making the team. He was re-signed to the practice squad the following day, maintaining his connection with the organization. On October 8, 2024, Bailey was promoted from the practice squad to the active roster, rewarding his persistence and preparation.
The 2025 season brought similar roster fluctuations. Bailey was waived again on August 26, 2025, and re-signed to the practice squad the next day. He was elevated from the practice squad for the Broncos’ Week 1 home opener against the Tennessee Titans, continuing his journey in professional football. On January 26, 2026, Bailey signed a futures contract with the Broncos, securing his place with the organization for the upcoming season.
Playing Style and Strengths
Bailey’s playing style emphasizes physicality and football intelligence from the linebacker position. His ability to diagnose plays quickly allows him to flow to the ball and make stops in both the running and passing game. His experience in multiple coverage schemes at Fresno State prepared him for the complexities of NFL offenses. As a former team captain, he brings leadership qualities that coaches value in developing defensive units.
Notable Achievements
The highlight of Bailey’s career thus far came in the 2023 New Mexico Bowl when he was named Defensive MVP while leading Fresno State to victory. His 94-yard interception return for a touchdown during the 2024 preseason demonstrated his ability to make game-changing plays at the professional level. His second-team All-Mountain West selection in 2023 validated four years of consistent excellence against high-level competition.
Levelle Bailey Career Statistics
Bailey has accumulated statistical achievements at both the college and professional levels, with his college career providing the bulk of his documented production.
Fresno State Bulldogs Highlights
Across 58 games over five seasons with the Fresno State Bulldogs, Bailey established himself as one of the program’s most productive linebackers. He recorded 277 total tackles, including 25.5 tackles-for-loss and seven sacks. His coverage skills were evident through six career interceptions and six pass breakups. His best statistical season came in 2022 when he led the team with 88 tackles while starting all 14 games.
NFL Career
Through the 2025 season, Bailey has recorded five total tackles in limited NFL action. His primary contributions have come on special teams and in limited defensive snaps while developing on the practice squad and working toward a larger role in the Broncos’ defense.
Levelle Bailey Family
Family Background
Bailey’s multicultural background has shaped his identity and perspective. His father, Lester Bailey, is African-American while his mother, Diana Tapa, is from the Pacific island nation of Tonga. He is the youngest of seven children, growing up with six older siblings in Sacramento, California.
Personal Life
During his time at Fresno State University, Bailey pursued a degree in kinesiology, demonstrating an academic interest in human movement and physical performance that aligns with his athletic career. He continues to work toward establishing himself as a consistent contributor in the NFL while maintaining connections to his Sacramento roots and his family’s diverse heritage.
2025 Season Performance
The 2025 season represented a continuation of Bailey’s developmental journey with the Denver Broncos. After being waived and re-signed to the practice squad multiple times, he remained patient and prepared for opportunities. His elevation from the practice squad for the Week 1 home opener against the Tennessee Titans provided an early-season chance to contribute on defense and special teams.
Throughout the season, Bailey worked to refine his technique and adapt to the speed and complexity of NFL offenses. His experience from the 2024 campaign, including the memorable 94-yard interception return, provided a foundation of confidence. The Broncos’ coaching staff continued to evaluate his progress in practice and games, seeking to identify his optimal role within the defensive scheme.
Looking ahead, Bailey’s January 2026 futures contract signing secured his place with the organization beyond the 2025 season. This vote of confidence from the Broncos indicates the team believes in his long-term potential as a linebacker in the NFL. With continued development and opportunities, Bailey aims to carve out a more prominent role in the Broncos’ defense and establish himself as a reliable professional football player.