Philadelphia Eagles: 5 Replacements for Nigel Bradham at linebacker

Inside linebacker is now an area of concern as the Philadelphia Eagles pursue a replacement for recently cut Nigel Bradham in free agency or the draft.

On Tuesday, the Philadelphia Eagles informed middle linebacker Nigel Bradham that he was being released from the team. Throughout his four seasons with Philadelphia, Bradham was the catalyst for the Eagles defense, helping in leading them to a Super Bowl title (2017), along with two other playoff appearances (2018, 2019).

The move is somewhat surprising given the depth at the position but the Eagles will receive $4.5 million in cap space, which will bring their total to around $45 million this offseason. Bradham will be 31 years old entering 2020 and the team should look to get younger at the position through the draft or free agency.

He was scheduled to make $8 million this season and his depleted production in 2019 is not able to match his value. With Kamu Grugier-Hill’s contract being up and Nate Gerry being their other solidified starter, the Eagles’ linebacker corps will need some major upgrades.

Here are five possible replacements for Nigel Bradham, either through free agency or the 2020 NFL Draft.

5. Kenneth Murray, Oklahoma

I’ve already pegged Kenneth Murray as a possible first-round draft target for the Eagles about a month ago and I’m still on board. He was absolutely outstanding in his three years with Oklahoma.

Following a 155-tackle sophomore season, Murray followed that up in 2019 with 102 tackles and four sacks. He’s an effective blitzer and he stifles the run with great sideline-to-sideline coverage. Murray also showcases outstanding speed which will be an asset for the Eagles defense if they are to draft him.

Consider him an upgrade if the franchise plans to grab him at the No. 21 spot of April’s NFL Draft.