Sam Bradford is entering a critical time for his career. The quarterback is coming off back-to-back ACL injuries and is entering the final year of his contract on a new team. After being traded to the Philadelphia Eagles, many wondered if the team would opt to try and commit long-term to the quarterback this offseason or let him play out the remaining year of his contract while seeing how his knee responds to playing. While some negotiations have been reported, Bradford appears ready to end talks.
According to NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport of NFL.com, Bradford is set to play out the final year of his contract and not sign a new deal until next season. The quarterback is ready to bet on himself in hopes of cashing in next offseason. Rapoport writes that Bradford wants to maximize his value after a quality season which could be a good or bad move for the quarterback depending on what happens in 2015.
If Bradford has a strong season under Chip Kelly, he could really capitalize on contract talks next year. However, if he struggles again or gets injured, he will have a hard time earning a new deal in the offseason. Originally, NJ.com reported that the Eagles and Bradford were discussing a new contract prior to OTAs and mini-camp. Numbers were being tossed around while Bradford was reportedly demanding a no-trade clause be placed in his deal. At the time, the quarterback appeared to only be worth a deal similar to what Ryan Tannehill signed with $35 million in guaranteed money. However, a big season could get Bradford much more.
The Eagles are likely thrilled at Bradford's decision. Signing the quarterback now is a big risk. If they were to put money into Bradford and he were to get injured again, the team would be out of luck. Letting Bradford finish out his contract minimizes the financial risk on the quarterback while potentially giving them a leg up to retain him if things go well.
The Eagles have done everything they can to surround the quarterback with talent. Bringing in DeMarco Murray will give Bradford a balanced attack to work with while Jordan Matthews, Josh Huff, Riley Cooper and Nelson Agholor highlight the wide receivers group. He is completely set up to have success, but his health will be the x-factor. Bradford was not overly active during offseason workouts, but is hoping to be healthy come training camp. Until then, Mark Sanchez will try and capitalize hoping that he can see more field time than what is predicted for him in 2015.
