Cardinals Should Consider Signing Ex-Eagles CB, James Bradberry
The Arizona Cardinals are entering a new era under head coach Jonathan Gannon. With a focus on rebuilding and developing young talent, the team is looking for pieces that can help them compete in the near future. One area where they could use an upgrade is at cornerback.
The Cardinals' Current State at Cornerback
The Cardinals' cornerback room currently features a mix of veterans and young players. Byron Murphy Jr. is a solid starter, but the rest of the depth chart is a question mark. Marco Wilson and Christian Matthew have shown flashes, but they lack consistency. The team also drafted the talented Kei’Trel Clark in the 4th round of the 2023 draft.
The Case for James Bradberry
Enter James Bradberry, a veteran cornerback with a proven track record of success. Bradberry recently signed a contract with the Philadelphia Eagles, but he was subsequently released after a disappointing 2022 season. However, there are several reasons why he could be a valuable addition to the Cardinals:
Experience and Leadership: Bradberry has played at a high level for several years, including a Pro Bowl season in 2020. He brings a wealth of experience to the Cardinals' young secondary and can serve as a mentor to the team's younger players.
Proven Production: Despite a down year in 2022, Bradberry has a history of being a shutdown corner. He can lock down opposing receivers and is capable of making big plays. He also has proven experience playing in a variety of coverage schemes.
Scheme Fit: With Jonathan Gannon coming from the Eagles, the Cardinals are likely to adopt a similar defensive scheme. Bradberry's familiarity with Gannon's system could make him an immediate contributor.
Cost Effective: Bradberry is coming off a disappointing season, which means his price tag is likely to be lower than it would have been otherwise. He could be a valuable asset for the Cardinals without breaking the bank.
Potential Concerns
Of course, there are some potential concerns with signing Bradberry:
- Age: He's 30 years old, and his best days may be behind him.
- Recent Performance: His performance in 2022 was well below his usual standard.
Conclusion:
The Cardinals should consider signing James Bradberry. He brings a wealth of experience, proven production, and a familiarity with Jonathan Gannon's defensive scheme. While there are some potential concerns, his potential upside and low cost make him a worthwhile gamble for a team looking to rebuild.
Keywords: Cardinals, Arizona Cardinals, James Bradberry, Philadelphia Eagles, Cornerback, NFL, Free Agency, Jonathan Gannon, Byron Murphy Jr., Marco Wilson, Christian Matthew, Kei’Trel Clark, Defensive Scheme, Experience, Leadership, Production, Cost Effective
