Philadelphia Eagles cornerback James Bradberry IV (24) gets in position during the first half of an NFL football game against the Baltimore Ravens, Friday, Aug. 9, 2024, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)
PHILADELPHIA — Eagles defensive back James Bradberry sustained a lower leg injury during Wednesday’s practice, and NFL sources report he is expected to be sidelined for 6-8 weeks. The injury, which affects a tendon, could lead to Bradberry being placed on injured reserve.
The NFL Network was first to break the news about Bradberry’s condition. The Eagles had been exploring trade options for the 31-year-old following his inclusion on the team’s initial 53-man roster announced on Tuesday. However, Bradberry’s injury complicates general manager Howie Roseman’s efforts to finalize a trade deal.
Bradberry, who signed a three-year, $38 million contract last offseason with $20 million guaranteed, is set to have his 2024 salary covered by the Eagles. Despite being named a second-team All-Pro cornerback last season, Bradberry struggled throughout most of 2023 and was transitioning to safety this year—a position change he had proposed.
Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio had expressed skepticism about Bradberry’s ability to transition successfully, noting difficulties in practice and preseason. Bradberry did not participate in the preseason finale on Saturday, which led to speculation about whether the Eagles were trying to avoid an injury affecting potential trade negotiations.
Bradberry’s performance at safety showed some promise, but he also made occasional mental errors and struggled with tackling—an area that has been a weakness throughout his career. Roseman acknowledged Bradberry’s football instincts but noted the challenges associated with the transition from cornerback to safety.
While Roseman did not assure Bradberry’s spot on the roster for the entire season, he indicated that the team had hoped to secure a trade deal. With Bradberry’s salary cap hit at $7.819 million for this season and the potential for $10.813 million in dead money if he is released, the Eagles face financial implications. They could save $2.994 million if they were to release him. Roseman has until the trade deadline on November 5 to negotiate a potential deal.
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