Eagles' James Bradberry Reveals Benefits of Practicing at Slot CB
James Bradberry has become one of the better outside cornerbacks in the league, but that may not be the only position he's lining up at this season for the Philadelphia Eagles.
Bradberry has been taking more reps inside at nickel corner for the Eagles' defense. While it's unknown how much he'll be playing inside, it appears to be in the plans for Bradberry and first-year defensive coordinator Sean Desai.
"It's been fun," Bradberry told the Eagles website. "It's a different world in there that I'm not used to. I'm trying to get adjusted to it and learn more. I think it's helping my overall knowledge of the game."
Bradberry was approached about taking snaps at nickel corner by Desai. With playing at a new position, Bradberry said it helps him learn more about the game.
"He just asked me to get in there to pretty much help me with my overall knowledge of the game, and then you just never know how the league works," Bradberry said. "Of course, we have a set number of DBs that are going to be in there. It's a long season. Injuries always happen. You never know when my name and number might be called to get in there."
Bradberry had three interceptions, including a pick-six and 17 passes defended last season. His play led to him making the Second-Team All-Pro defense and earned him a three-year $38 million contract this offseason.
Becoming a more versatile player will only help Bradberry and Philadelphia's defense. Lining up inside could also lead to more snaps for Bradberry against tight ends who are more like big receivers, such as Travis Kelce and Darren Waller. If Bradberry can line up all over the secondary and play at a high level, it'd add another dimension to an already strong Eagles defense.
Philadelphia kicks off its season on Sunday when they head to Gillette Stadium to face the New England Patriots at 4:25 p.m. ET.