The Philadelphia Eagles have a pressing need at cornerback and if the team can’t acquire Darius Slay via trade, then the free agency period could provide the next best option.
Byron Jones (Dallas) and James Bradberry (Carolina) are two of the top names set to hit the market and would both guys looking to cash out, the question has to be asked, which cornerback would be the better fit in Philadelphia.
Hoping to avoid another Nnamdi Asomugha disaster, Howie Roseman and company need to secure a strong cornerback, who can flourish and allow the Eagles defense to take the next step.
Jones has already established his desire to reset the cornerback market and according to Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com, Bradberry is looking for similar money.
Multiple sources from the combine say Panthers CB James Bradberry, one of the top corners on the market, is aiming for $15 or more million per year on a new deal. Washington among teams expected to be involved. Byron Jones, Bradberry and others plan to reset corner market.
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) February 29, 2020
With the Eagles expected to be very active in free agency, here’s a breakdown of what both players bring.
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Byron Jones
Jones will be hitting his prime when the season starts, turning 28 this coming September. Jones gave up just 5.1 yards per target in 2019, 2nd best among cornerbacks in the NFL and an overall grade from Pro Football Focus, of 76.1.
He may not be an interception machine, but he’s stout in coverage, versatile enough to lockdown wideouts and tight ends.
Jones (6-foot, 205 pounds) only gave up 0.39 yards per coverage snap in press-man last season, the second-lowest rate at his position. Jones’s ability to take away one part of the field or a man, would finally allow Jim Schwartz to fully utilize his defensive packages, thus making Avonte Maddox, Cre’Von LeBlanc, Sidney Jones and Rasul Douglas even better players.