Detroit, MI – April 17, 2025 – James Bradberry, a former Philadelphia Eagles standout, has signed a two-year, $12 million deal with the Detroit Lions, per NFL insider Ian Rapoport. The 31-year-old cornerback, once valued at $35 million, joins a Lions team desperate to fix its secondary after a dismal 2024 season.
Bradberry, released by the Eagles on March 12, 2025, with a post-June 1 designation, brings a Super Bowl LIX ring and second-team All-Pro honors (2022) to Detroit. Despite missing 2024 due to Achilles and Soleus injuries and a subpar 2023 (PFF grade 64.8), his 18 career interceptions and 99 passes defended make him a savvy addition for a Lions pass defense that ranked 30th in EPA last season.
The Lions, losing Amani Oruwariye and Mike Hughes to free agency, needed a veteran to pair with Jeff Okudah and Ennis Rakestraw Jr. Bradberry’s new contract, with $7 million guaranteed and up to $3 million in incentives, reflects a bet on his recovery. He’ll compete for the CB2 role, leveraging his man-coverage skills in Aaron Glenn’s aggressive scheme.
“James brings experience and a winning mentality,” said coach Dan Campbell. “He’s been in big games and will help our backend.”
Detroit’s $22 million cap space and urgent need at cornerback made them a perfect fit, outpacing suitors like the Las Vegas Raiders. Bradberry’s 2022 brilliance (3 interceptions, 17 passes defended) suggests he can be a reliable CB2, especially with Aidan Hutchinson’s pass rush easing coverage demands.
For Bradberry, this move is a chance to rebound after two tough years. The Lions gain a bargain if he regains form, addressing a roster hole while keeping draft flexibility. Eagles fans may miss their former star, but his exit cleared space for Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean. As Bradberry dons Honolulu blue, the NFL awaits his potential resurgence.
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