The team is counting on him to not only return to form on the field but also to emerge as a leader on a young defense going through many changes.
Both responsibilities present challenges. On the physical side, Bradley is only a year removed from a significant injury. On the mental side, a leadership role can carry a burden that weighs a player down on the field.
Just ask Quintin Mikell, a safety who last year tried to step into a vocal void left by Brian Dawkins and said his game suffered for it.
"I tried to do too much last year," Mikell said. "I tried to be a vocal guy. I tried to help guys here and help guys there, and it backfired."
His pregame speeches, for example, fell flat.
"There's a difference between being more vocal and trying to lead," Mikell said. Good leaders work hard and inspire teammates to follow their example, Mikell said. Not everyone is cut out for big talks.
"I was worried too much about the wrong stuff," Mikell said. "Instead of trying to be myself I was trying to be someone else."
Bradley seemed keenly aware of that pitfall, though he still embraced the idea of stepping into a more prominent role.
"When you step outside what you're comfortable doing, guys can sense that, and it's not honest, and it doesn't come across well," he said. "So as long as you can stay within your personality . . . then I think the guys will respond."
Defensive coordinator Sean McDermott made clear this week he is expecting players to respond to Bradley, telling reporters he expects the linebacker to be quarterback of the defense and a "significant addition."
Bradley, 26 and entering his fourth year in the NFL, including the one he lost last season, has spoken with McDermott about taking on leadership responsibilities.
