Redskins “might not be as invested” in James Bradberry as expected
By Ian Cummings
The Redskins have frequently been tied to former Carolina Panthers cornerback James Bradberry in the lead-up to free agency, but reports now suggest the two might not make a match.
It hasn’t taken long for Ron Rivera to make an impression as the Washington Redskins head coach, specifically an impression that’s suspiciously shaped like a Panther.
Most of Rivera’s coaching staff hires consisted of former Panthers coaches who served under his oversight in Carolina, and some of Rivera’s first roster moves with the Redskins involved signing former Panthers players. Connections play a crucial role in the NFL, from the small signings to the big ones, and that’s what caused many to connect Rivera to former Panthers cornerback James Bradberry.
Bradberry, who turns 27 years old in August, is set to hit the free agent market after playing out his rookie contract with Rivera’s Panthers. Bradberry reportedly wants top cornerback money, eyeing the $15 million annual value mark, and while the Redskins can pay that, there’s been much debate as to whether they should.
Evidently, however, it may not matter. According to New York Jets reporter Connor Hughes, the Redskins “might not be as invested” in Bradberry as was initially expected. Hughes listed the Jets as the front-runner for the former second-round pick, while also mentioning the nearby Giants.
It’s expected that the Redskins will at least make a substantial investment in the cornerback position this offseason, as they released Josh Norman and face an uncertain future with Quinton Dunbar. With over $60 million in cap space, Washington can afford to make a high-profile signing at the position, but some have wondered if Byron Jones is the better option there. He’s a bit older than Bradberry, but he’s a better athlete, with a better resume as a lockdown cornerback.
The Redskins could also bypass free agency entirely and invest in what appears to be a very deep cornerback class in the 2020 NFL Draft. Quality starters with athletic upside could be found as late as Rounds 3 and 4, and the value of a rookie contract can’t be overstated for a rebuilding team like Washington.
Free agency head-to-head: Byron Jones vs. James Bradberry. dark. Next
Whatever the case, the Redskins situation at cornerback is still in flux. Everything is still on the table, just as it was yesterday and the day before, but this report shows that James Bradberry, despite his connection with Rivera, might not have a home waiting in D.C., as was originally thought.