By Josh Svetz
Original predictions backed with analysis are something professional sports analysts strive to create. Likewise, this holds true for both current Steelers cornerback Ike Taylor and former cornerback Bryant McFadden.
McFadden has pursued a career in radio since his retirement and Taylor has his own radio show on Trib Live Radio.
While Taylor still hasn’t completed his playing days, McFadden has and seems to have grown comfortable on radio.
So comfortable in fact, that he is bold enough to say Arizona Cardinals cornerback Patrick Peterson will be the first 100 million dollar player at his position on the Tuesday edition of The Ike Taylor Show.
Taylor initially posed the question, saying that Peterson would be the first 100 million cornerback in NFL history. Backing up his prediction, Taylor stated that Peterson was the face of the franchise and his early Pro Bowl success, coupled by his work ethic and athleticism would lead Peterson to this milestone.
Before letting McFadden give his thoughts, Taylor mentioned that Peterson is McFadden‘s cousin, but McFadden made it clear that blood ties had no effect on his stance.
“I agree with you, he hasn’t even reached his peak yet at only 23 years of age and will continue to improve,” said McFadden. “I’m not letting the fact that he’s family get in the way, I really believe Pat is the real deal.
“I think Pat will be on the level of Charles Woodson and Darrelle Revis in their primes, just more athletic.”
McFadden went on to talk about why Peterson has a good chance of being the first 100 million player at his position, excluding talent from his argument.
“Look at the (Arizona) Cardinals roster, they will be able to pay him and lock him up to a long term deal,” said McFadden. “Revis got 16 million for one year, so looking at Pat, I think he can lock up a 6 year deal or longer, close to the total money Revis received for one year.”
Interesting thoughts posed by McFadden and Taylor. While any cornerback being paid a 100 million dollar contract seems unlikely due to the demand of paying the quarterback and other skill positions first, Peterson has showed flashes of that next great one at his position.
Whatever the case, McFadden and Taylor really believe in Peterson’s ability and think he is the next big thing on defense. Time will tell if they are right, but there’s no denying Peterson’s ability.
Though a 100 million dollar cornerback may have been a pipe dream just a few years ago, it is now in the realm of possibility and of the new crop of cornerbacks, Peterson may be the one who does it.
