Eagles Move on From Bradberry Amidst Multiple Offseason Decisions

With the news of the release of veteran cornerback Darius Slay, the accompanying announcement regarding James Bradberry’s release has largely flown under the radar, overshadowed by the more prominent story. Bradberry, a talented and experienced player, will be designated as a post-June 1 release, which strategically allows the Philadelphia Eagles to save $2.1 million against their salary cap in 2025, a crucial maneuver as they navigate the financial intricacies of the offseason.

At 31 years old, Bradberry faced significant challenges this past season; he suffered a torn Achilles during practice in the preseason, which forced him out of action for the entirety of 2024. However, in a recent statement, he expressed optimism about his recovery and a strong desire to return to the field as a cornerback in 2025, showcasing his resilience and determination to compete at the highest level once again. His previous performance underscores his capabilities: during the 2023 season, he recorded 13 passes defensed, an interception, and a fumble recovery over 16 starts for the Eagles, proving himself to be a pivotal player in their defensive lineup.

Bradberry’s NFL journey began with the Carolina Panthers, followed by a stint with the New York Giants, and eventually led him to the Philadelphia Eagles. He initially joined the Eagles on a one-year deal after being released by the Giants in 2022, but after proving his value, the Eagles signed him to a three-year contract the following offseason. His partnership with Darius Slay was particularly instrumental in forming one of the NFL's most formidable passing defenses, which helped propel Philadelphia to the Super Bowl.

Despite his impressive track record, Bradberry encountered difficulties during the 2023 season, especially on the outside, prompting discussions about his future with the team. As the Eagles drafted rookie cornerbacks Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean for the 2024 season, Bradberry was considered a likely candidate for release. In an effort to adapt to the evolving needs of the roster, he even contemplated transitioning from an outside corner to a safety position. Ultimately, he managed to survive the final day of roster cuts, but the uncertainty surrounding his role was palpable.

Notably, The Philadelphia Inquirer's Jeff McLane reported that the Eagles had engaged in discussions with several teams, including the Tennessee Titans, regarding a potential trade for Bradberry, indicating that his experience and skill set are still highly valued in the league. As the situation unfolds, his future remains a topic of interest, with multiple teams in need of depth at the CB position.