Take a Breath — Eagles resign James Bradberry to 3 year, $38 million deal

On the second day of the NFL’s legal tampering period, Howie Roseman is cookin’, and he just made the Eagles’ biggest move of the offseason yet, resigning cornerback James Bradberry IV to a 3-year, $38 million deal.

The deal includes $20 million fully guaranteed as well as $6 million in incentives.

CB James Bradberry is returning to the #Eagles on three-year deal worth $38 million, including $20 million fully guaranteed and another $6 million in incentives, per @AdamSchefter. Total package is $44 million.#FlyEaglesFly pic.twitter.com/PCSC1Hyp1x
— Philly Sports Reports (@PhlySprtsReprts) March 14, 2023

As the Birds watched player after player leave this team over the past 36 hours, fans had become quite concerned regarding the state of the team’s defense for the 2023 season. I think it is safe to say some of those concerns have been quelled with this move.

This move means at least one, and possibly both, of Darius Slay and C.J. Gardner-Johnson will not be back with the team next season. However, the Eagles now have a chance to be set on the outside for a while. If Slay leaves, the Eagles would be smart to pick up a corner in the upcoming draft (preferably with the 10th overall pick), and if Slay does not leave, great!

Bradberry, who was signed late last offseason after being released by the New York Giants, had a fantastic season for the Birds last year. He had 3 interceptions, including a pick-six, 17 passes deflected, and 44 total tackles. He also finished 3rd in WAR (not just a baseball stat) among NFL corners, 2nd in EPA allowed per target, and 5th in forced incompletion rate, according to Pro Football Focus.

With one cornerback position now locked up, it will be interesting to see what Howie Roseman does next. There are still plenty of holes to fill on this defense, including upfront, linebacker, and safety. So stay tuned, as it is sure to be a very busy offseason for the reigning NFC Champs.