Sam Bradford is preparing to hit the free agent market as the best available at his position. With Kirk Cousins expected to stay put in Washington, Bradford is ranked the highest over other options like Colin Kaepernick, Robert Griffin III and Johnny Manziel who are expected to be available as well. While the Philadelphia Eagles want to retain their quarterback, Bradford is about to be very popular with several teams.
Bradford is not going to come cheap for any team looking to sign him. According to CBSSports.com, Bradford has demanded a contract worth $25 million per season. When the Eagles and the quarterback first engaged in contract discussions, those were Bradford's demands. Spotrac.com reports Bradford is expected to be worth $18 million per season which is a number more favorable for most teams. Bradford did prove that he can compete at a high level after back-to-back ACL injuries, his stats did not blow anyone away. There will still be interest.
According to Philly.com, the Denver Broncos could emerge as a contender for Bradford. Peyton Manning is not a long-term option. The quarterback may or may not retire at the end of the season, but the Broncos can no longer count on him as their full-time starter. Brock Osweiler is becoming a free agent. While the backup quarterback showed some potential on the field, Bradford might be considered an upgrade. The Broncos could retain Osweiler on a cheaper contract or they could go for the big deal in Bradford.
The Cleveland Browns could show interest, but it might not be mutual. ESPN.com reported during the 2015 offseason prior to Bradford getting traded from the St. Louis Rams that the quarterback did not want to be dealt to the Browns. Reports stated Bradford would not sign a long-term contract with the Browns if he were to be traded to the team. New head coach Hue Jackson told the media that the Browns need a quarterback and that might not be Johnny Manziel or Josh McCown. Bradford would be the upgrade.
If Bradford is going to sign somewhere other than the Eagles, the Houston Texans are the best position for him. Houston has a solid offensive line and good wide receiver depth. That paired with their defensive unit as the team set up for success. All they need is a quarterback and Bradford could be that option if they offer him a solid contract. The New York Jets are another team set up for success. The team wants to re-sign Ryan Fitzpatrick according to ESPN's Rich Cimini, but Bradford would be the better long-term option.
Regardless of what Bradford might want, the Eagles hold the right to place their franchise tag on him. Philadelphia could get him on the one-year deal and at least keep their starting quarterback for another season. Bradford could be forced to wait another year for a long-term contract. That could benefit him. If he were to play better than 2015, he sets himself up for a bigger pay day.
