The Philadelphia Eagles could be losing one of their most storied defenders, as one report indicates the team could release defensive back James Bradberry. Originally joining the team in 2022, the former second-round pick earned Second-Team All-Pro honors during his first year with the club and played a pivotal role in helping the team reach the Super Bowl. Unfortunately, he struggled in 2023 and was reportedly moving to safety before suffering a season-ending Achilles injury in training camp.
Now set to carry a $5.19 million cap hit, the Eagles could save $2.1 million in cap space by releasing James Bradberry as a post-June 1st cut. Kyle Dvorchak of NBC Sports believes this will happen, as Philadelphia’s loaded roster doesn’t have the room for an expensive veteran coming off a serious injury.
“The Eagles were looking at moving [Bradberry] to safety before the injury. Bradberry has since said he wants to return to corner. There’s not much room for him on the roster at either position. Three of the five starters in the secondary are standouts on rookie contracts. The other two are veterans coming off rebound seasons in C.J. Gardner-Johnson and Darius Slay.”
Report: Eagles Could Release James Bradberry After Injury-Riddled 2024
Assuming the Eagles release him, James Bradberry might have a difficult time finding a new team. Despite being one of the league’s best cornerbacks in 2022, his struggles in 2023 combined with his Achilles injury make him a high-risk player. While he wants to return to cornerback, he might have to settle for a safety job on a low-paying contract.
Chances are, Bradberry will have to sign a one-year deal and compete for a cornerback job. While he won’t be anyone’s first choice, he could end up with the following three teams.
Potential Fits
Carolina Panthers
The Carolina Panthers need help at just about every defensive position, so James Bradberry could make a home for himself at safety or cornerback. Pro Bowler Jaycee Horn finally stayed healthy last year, but he can’t cover the entire field by himself. Assuming the Eagles release James Bradberry, the veteran could compete for the CB2 or CB3 job and, if that doesn’t work, could easily move to safety and earn a spot on that empty depth chart.
Washington Commanders
Rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels and head coach Dan Quinn inherited a 4-13 roster and brought the team to the NFC Championship Game in just one season. This is a team on the rise that might take the next step if they can improve the secondary. Mike Sainristil was the only remotely competent part of the defense last year, as Benjamin St. Juste and Noah Igbinoghene were two of the league’s worst cornerbacks last year. Trade acquisition Marshon Lattimore is a cut candidate himself, as he struggled to stay healthy and played poorly during his time on the field. James Bradberry shouldn’t be the only addition to this secondary, but he could help fix the biggest weakness on this roster.
New Orleans Saints
The New Orleans Saints have several roster holes and no real way to address them. Currently projected to be $47 million over the salary cap, General Manager Mickey Loomis must get creative to reach cap compliance and build a roster that can compete for first-year head coach Kellen Moore. The best way to do this is by buying low on players like James Bradberry. Maybe he doesn’t have anything left in his tank, but someone needs to start opposite second-round pick Kool-Aid McKinstry.
Main Photo: Kim Klement Neitzel – Imagn Images
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