With the NFL approaching week nine of the 2022-23 season, teams are beginning to make strides towards the postseason, easily distinguishing between the contenders and the pretenders. Samford has several players playing at football’s biggest stage and contributing to their teams’ quests for the playoffs.
Samford leads the SoCon in NFL players with four total: James Bradberry, Montrell Washington, Michael Pierce and Nick Williams.
James Bradberry has proven to be a lockdown corner for the Philadelphia Eagles. This is his first season with the team, as he signed with the Birds in free agency after being released by the New York Giants. Bradberry is currently tied for third in passes defended in the league, and has also added 15 solo tackles. The Eagles are 7-0 at the moment, the best record in the league, and are looking to bring Philadelphia a Super Bowl for the first time since 2017.
Rookie Montrell Washington has shined for the Denver Broncos as a return specialist, amassing 315 yards for the return team and rushing for an additional 30 yards. While the Broncos are struggling under a new coach and lackluster play from quarterback Russell Wilson, Washington has proven his value as a speedy threat on kickoffs and punt returns, an invaluable asset for a Denver team looking to contend in the AFC West.
Defensive tackle Michael Pierce plays for the Baltimore Ravens in his sixth season in the NFL. Unfortunately, Pierce was placed on season-ending injured reserve after suffering torn biceps in week three. Pierce will look to rehab for the next season with Baltimore, as he signed a three-year contract with the team in March.
Nick Williams is a defensive tackle for the New York Giants, who signed Williams in July. So far this season, Williams has made 15 tackles to help the Giants achieve a record of 6-2 in the NFC East. Williams also has a nagging biceps injury, but is listed as Probable for the Giants’ next matchup against the Houston Texans.
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