4 most impressive 2019 Panthers players from Week 1

James Bradberry – Former Carolina Panthers CB

James Bradberry left the Carolina Panthers in free agency for a big-money move to the New York Giants. He was given a three-year, $43.5 million deal that included $31.95 million guaranteed. And this was something that the organization just couldn’t match even if they wanted to with their financial restrictions.

The former second-round pick was handed a stern test of his credentials on debut against the formidable Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday Night Football. Bradberry did give up a touchdown to JuJu Smith-Schuster which was down in no small part to a sensational throw from returning quarterback Ben Rothlisberger. But his overall performance was encouraging in an area of the field that the Giants struggled significantly in 2019.

Bradberry gave up four receptions from seven targets on his way to a 65.3 grade from Pro Football Focus. He made some tremendous plays under pressure and there was a lot to like about his ability to track receivers and his discipline in coverage.

This will be a big confidence boost for Bradberry, who became something of a scapegoat in Carolina last season despite giving up just 41 receptions from a lofty 80 catchable balls thrown his way.

The Giants’ offense was no match for the phenomenal defensive unit of the Steelers. But they can be confident in Bradberry’s ability to provide an assured presence at cornerback that simply wasn’t there last time out.