Report: Eagles, Bradford Talking Short-Term Deal

According to ESPN’s Ed Werder, the Eagles and Sam Bradford are discussing a potential short-term deal that would lock the quarterback in beyond the 2015 season.

An NFL Network report last month suggested Bradford intended to play out the final year of his mega rookie deal, but apparently talks have picked back up.

Bradford is scheduled to make just a shade under $13 million this season. Having already banked some $65 million off his rookie deal, he certainly has the financial wiggle room to bet on himself this year. If he plays the contract out, stays healthy and has a big season in Chip Kelly‘s system, a large pay day awaits.

The only financial incentive to get something done now would be in the name of securing some more guaranteed money to guard against injury, etc.

Giving Bradford an extension before he plays a meaningful snap is a bit risky from the team’s perspective, but will look like the smart play should Bradford thrive this season as Kelly hopes. The Eagles then would be in a position where they would have to sign Bradford to a lucrative long-term extension, place the franchise tag on him (which is likely to cost around $20 million) or let him walk. Given those options, getting a short-term deal done now is probably the most desirable route.