The New Orleans Saints play in the NFC South, which means they're never far away from being a playoff team. One move that would push them further in the mix is signing James Bradberry.
Bradberry would instantly become the Saints' most experienced cornerback, as he's played in 125 NFL games, which is 24 more than the current "veteran" in the room, Isaac Yiadom (who currently leads the Saints cornerbacks with 101 games played).
He's spent the last three years with the Philadelphia Eagles and has the Super Bowl ring to show for it. Unfortunately, Bradberry tore his Achilles and Soleus muscle before the 2024 season even began. In March, he was released by the Eagles with a post-June 1 designation. Over the past eight seasons, Bradberry has gathered 478 tackles, 112 passes defended, 19 interceptions, four forced fumbles, and three sacks. Additionally, he's been named to the pro bowl and been named an all-pro once.
James Bradberry is already familiar with the Saints' defense
Brandon Staley comes from the Vic Fangio coaching tree, but it's important to note that Fangio only just got the job with the Eagles last year. That means Bradberry's injury kept him from ever seeing an NFL snap in this defense. However, if signed, would not have to start from square one.
Just because Bradberry missed all of the 2024 regular season doesn't mean that he never learned Fangio's scheme. He was healthy all offseason and went through every practice just like the rest of the defense (he didn't tear his achilles until the last week of August). What that means is that he has spent the season watching and learning, and if he's finally able to show what he learned, it could really be to the Saints' benefit.
Bradberry would certainly be an eye-catching addition. He could become a sort of North Star within the cornerback room with the experience that he has under his belt. Furthermore, he has witnessed firsthand how this defense can lead to Super Bowl victories. He's seen the highs and lows of the scheme, even if he was on the sidelines. If he is signed, the Saints' chances of a playoff push are much higher than they were just last week.