James Bradberry NFL Draft 2016: Scouting Report, Grade for Panthers Rookie

POSITIVES

A position-versatile defensive back, James Bradberry has big-school talent coming out of a small Samford program. He will get a look from teams as a cornerback, free safety and nickelback.

Athletically, Bradberry is one of the more impressive cornerbacks in this class. He matches height with a big, muscular physique but also has elite speed, great length (33 ⅜" arms) and an above-average vertical jump (36").

Bradberry totaled four interceptions and 15 pass breakups in the last two seasons and has shown the ball skills to track over the top or plant and drive to come up and make plays on underneath routes. His timing on breaking routes is very good, and Bradberry is strong enough to re-route receivers with his hands. He’s a poised cover man with confidence in his speed and size to get the job done.

Projecting a player from Samford to the NFL can be tricky, but looking purely at the traits, Bradberry has what it takes.

NEGATIVES

The level of competition will be heavily scrutinized, as Bradberry covered little NFL talent in the Southern Conference. The biggest adjustment for him will be the need to win with technique and not just athleticism in the pros.

Bradberry’s footwork throughout Senior Bowl practices looked heavy and mistimed. He wasn’t consistent with his hip turns and lacked an explosive movement after a transition. In one-on-one drills, Bradberry couldn’t hold leverage against route-runners and was easily run off on comebacks and slant routes. Being beaten on an inside route shouldn’t happen when you have his size and speed.

If Bradberry rises to the challenge and dedicates himself to learning pro technique, he could be a starter early in his career.

COMBINE RESULTS

Height: 6'0 ¾"

Weight: 211 lbs.

40 Time: 4.50s

3-Cone: 6.91s

Short Shuttle: 4.21s

PRO COMPARISON: David Amerson, Oakland Raiders
FINAL GRADE: 6.00/9.00 (Round 3—Future Starter)