"[1] A native of Bridgeport, Connecticut, he played college football for the Wake Forest Demon Deacons.

He was selected by the Chicago Bears in the 16th round (206th overall pick) of the 1950 NFL draft.

He played for the Bears during the 1950 and 1952 seasons and appeared in a total of 12 NFL games.

[2][3] In July 1953, Bradley let the Bears, signing a contract to play for the Montreal Alouettes.

[6] His son Ed Bradley Jr. also played football for Wake Forest and in the NFL.