Monday, October 29, 2018

Bill Bradley - S/P

Bill Bradley was the Eagles' free safety for the first half of the 1970s.

He was their 3rd pick in the 1969 draft, and as a rookie he led the team in kick returns and punt returns (while being the only punt returner of significance), and also took over the punting chores from long-time veteran Sam Baker, who focused only on kicking in his final season (1969).

1970 was his only season with the Eagles where he had neither kick or punt returns, and was only the team's punter and backup safety. He punted in 12 of the 14 games (missing 2 games with injuries).

In 1971 Bradley became the Eagles' full-time free safety. He made the Pro Bowl for the next 3 seasons, and was voted 1st team All-Pro in '71 and '72. Bill led the NFL in interceptions in 1971 and 1972, and also led the league in yards after interceptions in 1971. Oh, he also resumed his role as primary punt returner, leading the team in that category from 1971-74.

When did he get a break? On 4th downs! After 1970, he no longer punted, except during 1972 and for part of 1973.

Here are his '72, '73, '74, and '75 cards.

Bradley played every game from 1971-76, and started all 14 games each of those years except in '75 and '76, when he started 10 and 12 games.

Bill remained the team's starting free safety through the end of the 1976 season, then was traded to the Vikings in June 1977. He ended up playing 4 games for the Cardinals in '77, his final season.


Where's Waldo Bill?

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