In a move that brings an emotional close to one of the most respected careers in recent Philadelphia Eagles history, veteran cornerback James Bradberry has officially announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 32. The former Pro Bowl defensive back made the decision after months of free-agent uncertainty and reflection on his journey in the league.
Bradberry’s retirement marks the end of an eight-year NFL career defined by intelligence, consistency, and professionalism. A second-round pick in the 2016 NFL Draft by the Carolina Panthers, he later became a standout for the New York Giants before joining the Eagles in 2022 — where he helped lead one of the most dominant secondaries in football during their Super Bowl LVII run.
His time in Philadelphia revitalized his career and solidified his reputation as one of the league’s most disciplined and technically sound cornerbacks. Alongside Darius Slay, Bradberry formed one of the NFL’s most formidable cornerback duos, helping the Eagles reach new defensive heights.
However, after a difficult 2024 campaign marked by injuries and uneven play, the veteran corner was released this offseason. Despite drawing mild interest from several teams, Bradberry chose to step away rather than force a comeback that didn’t feel right.
In his retirement statement released Wednesday morning, Bradberry spoke with honesty and grace about his decision and his lasting love for the Eagles organization:
“I knew it was time. I couldn’t compete at the level the Eagles expect anymore, and I’ve always believed this team deserves players at their absolute best. I’ve trained with a few top organizations since leaving, but none of them felt like home. What we had in Philadelphia was different — it was more than football. It was family, brotherhood, and pride in something bigger than ourselves.”
Those words capture the essence of what Bradberry brought to the Eagles — not just as a player, but as a leader. He was never the loudest voice in the locker room, but his calm professionalism, film-room discipline, and steady presence made him a trusted figure for younger defensive backs and coaches alike.
Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni praised Bradberry’s influence both on and off the field, saying:
“James represented what it means to be an Eagle — smart, accountable, and team-first. He helped set the standard for how we prepare and how we compete. We’re grateful for everything he gave to this organization.”
During his tenure in Philadelphia, Bradberry started every game he was available for, recording 7 interceptions and 30 pass breakups across two seasons. His highlight moment came in the 2022 NFC Championship Game, when his lockdown coverage helped the Eagles dominate the 49ers and secure their trip to the Super Bowl.
Even in retirement, fans continue to debate one of the defining moments of his career — the late-game holding call in Super Bowl LVII against the Chiefs, which Bradberry himself humbly accepted afterward. His accountability that night, in the face of heartbreak, only strengthened his reputation as a class act.
Bradberry leaves the game with 19 career interceptions, 100+ pass breakups, and the respect of teammates, opponents, and fans across the league.
Off the field, he’s expected to remain involved in football, potentially in player mentorship or coaching, something those close to him say has always been a passion.
As one chapter ends, Bradberry’s name will remain synonymous with the core values that defined his career — humility, intelligence, and heart. And for Eagles fans, his words will echo as a reminder of what made him special: not just his coverage skills, but his belief that football in Philadelphia was never just a game — it was family.
