James Bradberry IV Bio
James Bradberry IV is an American professional football cornerback who currently plays for the Philadelphia Eagles in the National Football League (NFL). Born on August 4, 1993, in Pleasant Grove, Alabama, he played college football for the Samford Bulldogs. Bradberry was selected by the Carolina Panthers in the second round of the 2016 NFL Draft. He has also played for the New York Giants and has been recognized as a Pro Bowl player and a Super Bowl champion.
Early Life and Background
James Bradberry IV was born to Rosie and James Bradberry Sr. in Pleasant Grove, Alabama. He was a three-year varsity letterman as a member of Pleasant Grove High’s Spartans football team, where he played both cornerback and safety. Standing at 6 feet 1 inch and weighing 210 pounds, Bradberry was also a two-sport athlete, participating in varsity basketball. During his senior season in football, he recorded nine interceptions and 45 tackles, earning all-metro and first-team all-state honors. Additionally, he served as team captain and was a member of the National Honor Society.
After graduating from Pleasant Grove High School in 2010, Bradberry enrolled at Arkansas State University in June 2011. He played as a defensive back during his freshman season and redshirted in 2012. He later transferred to Samford University, where he became a starting cornerback for the Bulldogs. In his debut season at Samford, he recorded 32 tackles and two interceptions, earning a spot on the Southern Conference All-Freshman team. He continued to excel in subsequent seasons, finishing with impressive statistics and establishing himself as a key player on the team.
Path to American Football
James Bradberry was selected by the Carolina Panthers in the second round of the 2016 NFL Draft, being the 62nd overall pick. He was the tenth cornerback selected that year and was part of a group of three cornerbacks drafted by the Panthers. Bradberry became only the seventh player from Samford to be drafted since 1967. He signed a four-year rookie contract with the Panthers that included a significant signing bonus.
During his rookie season, Bradberry made an immediate impact, starting in all 13 games he played. He finished the season with 59 combined tackles, ten pass deflections, and two interceptions. His performance earned him recognition as the top-ranked rookie cornerback by Pro Football Focus. Over the following seasons, Bradberry continued to develop his skills and solidify his position as a starting cornerback, contributing significantly to the Panthers’ defense.
James Bradberry IV Career
Early Career (2016–2019)
Bradberry made his professional debut on September 8, 2016, in the Panthers’ season opener against the Denver Broncos. He quickly established himself as a reliable cornerback, making six combined tackles and a pass deflection in his first game. Throughout his rookie season, he faced challenges, including injuries, but he consistently performed at a high level. In 2017, he recorded a career-high eight combined tackles in a playoff game against the New Orleans Saints.
In 2018, Bradberry started all 16 games for the Panthers, finishing the season with 70 combined tackles, a sack, and an interception. He continued to be a key player for the Panthers in 2019, achieving notable performances, including a game with two interceptions against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He concluded his time with the Panthers with impressive statistics and was recognized for his contributions to the team’s defense.
Breakthrough (2020–2021)
On March 16, 2020, Bradberry signed a three-year contract with the New York Giants. He quickly became the team’s number one cornerback and made his mark in his first season with the Giants. In Week 2, he recorded his first interception with the team and finished the season with 54 combined tackles, three interceptions, and earned his first Pro Bowl selection.
In 2021, Bradberry continued to excel, starting all 17 games and achieving a career-high four interceptions. His performance earned him recognition among his peers, ranking 74th on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2021 list. However, following the 2021 season, the Giants released him due to salary cap constraints.
Notable Works and Milestones
Bradberry’s signature work includes his performances in the Pro Bowl and his contributions to the teams he has played for, particularly his role in the Panthers’ playoff appearances and his recognition as a Pro Bowl player. His journey through the NFL has been marked by significant achievements, including his selection as a Super Bowl champion in 2024.
James Bradberry IV Award Nominations
Throughout his career, James Bradberry has received several nominations and accolades, including his selection to the Pro Bowl in 2020, recognizing his outstanding performance as a cornerback.
James Bradberry IV Awards Won
James Bradberry has won notable awards throughout his career, including being named a Super Bowl champion in 2024 and earning Second-team All-Pro honors in 2022.
James Bradberry IV Family
James Bradberry IV was born to James Bradberry Sr. and Rosie. There are no publicly available details regarding his marital status or children.
Personal Life
Bradberry’s Spartan jersey number 10 was retired in a ceremony held at Pleasant Grove High on April 5, 2024, honoring his contributions to the school’s football program.