The Philadelphia Eagles made a notable decision this offseason, opting to retain veteran defensive back James Bradberry. Known for his prowess as a cornerback for nearly a decade in the NFL, Bradberry is set to embark on a new chapter in his career—transitioning to the safety position. This shift, alongside his retention on the Eagles' 53-man roster, marks a significant development for both Bradberry and the team.
Bradberry's Transition to Safety
Having played nine years primarily as a cornerback, the move to safety is a major adjustment for Bradberry. Despite the challenges inherent in such a transition, the 31-year-old seems more than willing to embrace his new role. As he stated during training camp, "I try to be adaptable. I'm on the team right now, so while I'm on the team I want to find a role on this team, and I feel like if I'm a versatile player then I'm going to have a role."
This adaptability was put to the test during the preseason, where Bradberry found himself playing for the second-team defense. He played behind Reed Blankenship, C.J. Gardner-Johnson, and Avonte Maddox, yet still managed to secure his spot on the final roster. Additionally, the Eagles also kept Tristin McCollum, adding further depth to their secondary.
While Bradberry’s move to safety is a work in progress, his commitment to learning and excelling in this new position is evident. "Of course I want to start," he remarked. "Now, where I'm going to start? I don't know, but I'm working right now at safety to see if I can learn it and play that and be a valuable asset to the team right there."
Exploring Trade Options
Before solidifying Bradberry’s spot on the roster, the Eagles explored various trade options. Among the potential destinations was the Tennessee Titans, who showed interest in acquiring the seasoned veteran. Despite the trade explorations, Bradberry remained with the Eagles, a decision influenced by both financial and strategic considerations. Releasing him would have resulted in a significant $4.305 million dead cap hit, a factor that certainly weighed in the Eagles’ determination to retain him.
Performance Insights
Bradberry’s performance last season provides a mixed bag of statistics. Opposing quarterbacks completed 56% of their passes when targeting him, a respectable figure that underscores his skills in pass defense. However, he conceded 689 yards and nine touchdowns, leading to a passer rating of 87.1 against him. Despite these numbers, Bradberry still made impactful plays, recording one interception and breaking up 13 passes. These statistics reflect a player who, while not flawless, remains a formidable presence on the field.
Contract and Future Prospects
Coming off an All-Pro season, Bradberry was rewarded with a lucrative three-year, $38 million contract by the Eagles. This substantial investment signifies the team's faith in his abilities and potential contributions moving forward. As Bradberry adjusts to his new role and continues to integrate himself into the defense, the Eagles will be looking to capitalize on his experience and versatility.
Conclusion
The upcoming season promises to be an intriguing one for James Bradberry and the Philadelphia Eagles. With his transition to safety and the substantial commitment from the team, Bradberry’s journey will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike. His ability to adapt and perform in his new role could be a key factor in the Eagles' defensive strategies this season.