The Eagles made it clear that James Bradberry was not in their plans at cornerback by selecting cornerbacks with their first two draft picks. However, the team has not given up on Bradberry entirely, as they announced that they are moving him to safety, a position he has never played before.
Eagles coach Nick Sirianni stated that Bradberry has shown versatility in playing different roles on defense, including at dime, nickel, and corner. Now, he is transitioning to safety, with Sirianni expressing excitement about the opportunity. Sirianni mentioned examples of successful cornerbacks who made the switch to safety, such as Charles Woodson.
Despite a dropoff in performance in 2023, Bradberry earned All-Pro honors at corner and signed a three-year, $38 million deal with the Eagles in March 2023. Without the contract, the team may have considered cutting him. The move to safety comes as the Eagles seek depth behind their starting safeties, Reed Blankenship and CJ Gardner-Johnson.
In addition to Bradberry, there are other players on the roster competing for the safety position, including Sydney Brown, Mekhi Garner, Tristin McCollum, and Andre Sam. Avonte Maddox, a veteran nickel corner, has also cross-trained at safety. Despite facing an injury during a mandatory minicamp practice, Bradberry’s commitment to the team has been praised by Sirianni, who noted Bradberry’s willingness to do whatever is needed for his teammates.