James Bradberry is among the noticeable absences at Eagles OTAs

Things are moving along, and we're grateful. We'll take any opportunity we have to discuss the Philadelphia Eagles. Organized team activities began on Monday, May 22nd. Their first practice session of this portion of their offseason workout plan came two days later. That one was open to the media.

As you might expect, the word got out quickly. The familiar faces were out, from the press at least. Some of the players, however, were MIA.

James Bradberry is among the noticeable absences at Eagles OTAs.

There's no need to ignite the rumor mill. There's also no need to worry as OTA attendance is voluntary, but James Bradberry wasn't present at Philly's May 22nd practice session. That isn't shocking given everything that has happened in the Eagles' organization these past two and half months.

As most of you know, Philly's fears were realized as Bradberry, who is aging, declined during the most recent Eagles season after being named a Second-Team All-Pro in 2022. Some believe that, after the Birds drafted both Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean in the most recent NFL Draft, James' days might be numbered and he might be a post-June 1st cut candidate.

If Philly elects to exercise that option, the $15.1 million dead-cap hit he would represent could be spread out over two seasons instead of the Eagles having to take on the full cost in 2024. He has a potential 'out' worked into his deal after this season.

It must also be stated that it isn't a foregone conclusion that the Birds are even thinking in this vein. No one should be shocked if Bradberry isn't on the 53-man roster come September, but no one should be shocked if he sticks around either. Philly may elect to keep him on their roster. While we're on the subject, here's another nugget.

There's no guarantee that any of this speculation has anything to do with his absence. Again, attendance at OTAs is voluntary, and he wasn't the only Eagle who was missing. Jake Elliott, Lane Johnson, DeVonta Smith, Josh Sweat, and Kelee Ringo were also absent.

Bradberry's absence, however, is certainly the most interesting. Once practice wrapped, players met with the media. Slay was one of the guys that spoke. He said he talked to James, his friend was in good spirits, and ready to help develop and teach the young guys.

So, again, we reiterate... Much of what we said might be speculation, but you won't knock us for doing so, will you? Isn't everyone speculating at this point?

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