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Panthers add Samford CB James Bradberry as possible Norman replacement

Joe Robbins / Getty Images Sport / Getty

The Carolina Panthers have selected cornerback James Bradberry out of Samford in the second round of the 2016 NFL Draft.

Bradberry is an intriguing prospect. He's raw, but has good size and is a sure tackler. Not many expected Bradberry to be selected in the second round, but the Panthers must have liked his upside too much to risk letting him drop any further.

Cornerback is a position of need for the Panthers after the departure of Josh Norman. That's likely where Bradberry will begin his career, but it's also conceivable the Panthers will view him as a better fit at safety.

James Bradberry Bio

Position: CB
School: Samford
College Experience: Redshirt Senior
Height: 6-1
Weight: 211 lbs.

Strengths

  • Ideal size for an NFL cornerback.
  • Uses his length to disrupt passes.
  • Does well in press coverage due to NFL-caliber size.
  • Possesses a great catch radius that could come in handy if he improves his ball skills. (CBS Sports)

Weaknesses

  • Passive in run support and doesn't exploit his physical advantages against smaller ball-carriers.
  • Does a poor job diagnosing plays and is hesitant to make decisions after the snap.
  • Poor footwork will be exposed by professional wide receivers.
  • Played against relatively weak competition, and his raw physical tools may not be able to compensate for his lack of football skills.

Combine Results

Event Result
40-yd Dash 4.45 sec
Bench Press 16 reps
Vertical Jump 36 inches
Broad Jump 124 inches
3-Cone Drill 6.91 sec
20-yd Shuttle 4.21 sec

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