Wake Forest Sports Hall of Fame
- Induction:
- 1987
When Ed Bradley Jr. came to Wake Forest in 1968 from Stratford, Conn., he bore credentials as a standout quarterback and defensive back. He quickly converted to defense exclusively and found himself as a starting linebacker on Cal Stoll's first Deacon squad in 1969. He went on to hold that first-string position all three varsity seasons and was a key figure in the 1970 team's memorable drive to an ACC championship.
Following his senior season, he was invited to play in both the East-West Shrine game and the Senior Bowl.
Drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the fourth round of the 1972 NFL Draft, Bradley anxiously joined the Steel Curtain defense. By 1974, he was playing an important role for the Steelers and starred in the team's 16-6 win over the Minnesota Vikings in Super Bowl IX that season. When Steeler middle linebacker Jack Lambert suffered a badly sprained ankle in the first half, Bradley replaced him and played the remainder of the game.
The following year, Bradley helped the Steelers defend their Super Bowl title with a 21-17 win over Dallas. Bradley and another Wake Hall of Famer, Jim Clack, were the first Deacons to earn Super Bowl rings as players.
Ed later served as a tri-captain for the inaugural Seattle Seahawks team in 1976 and started two seasons for the San Francisco 49ers. He retired following the 1978 season after suffering an injury.
Bradley continued to return to Wake Forest during the off-season in order to complete his degree.
Bradley was inducted into the Wake Forest Sports Hall of Fame on Sept. 19, 1987.
