Bratton's Professional Football Career: From the NFL to the CFL
The journey of a professional athlete is often a winding road of transitions, challenges, and triumphs. For Bratton, this path spanned multiple leagues and continents, beginning in the high-stakes environment of the National Football League (NFL) and culminating in significant success within the Canadian Football League (CFL).
Early Professional Steps in the NFL
Bratton's professional career began in May 2005 when he signed his first contract with the Atlanta Falcons. After attending the team's training camp, he was released in September of the same year. However, his pursuit of a spot in the NFL continued shortly after, as he signed with the Baltimore Ravens in October 2005, where he spent time on the team's practice roster.
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International Experience with the Cologne Centurions
In January 2006, Bratton's career took an international turn when he was allocated to the Cologne Centurions of NFL Europe. This period allowed him to gain significant starting experience. During his tenure in Cologne, he started 10 games, recording 23 receptions for 280 yards and scoring two touchdowns. His time with the Centurions concluded in August 2006 upon his release.
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Success in the Canadian Football League
On February 27, 2007, Bratton signed a one-year contract with an option with the Montreal Alouettes of the CFL. His initial role focused heavily on special teams, where he excelled as a punt and kickoff returner. A standout moment occurred on July 26, 2007, when he scored his first career touchdown via a 79-yard punt return against the Toronto Argonauts.
Bratton's offensive impact grew steadily over the following years. In 2008, he achieved a career-high in scoring with seven receiving touchdowns. He further solidified his legacy in Montreal by contributing to the team's Grey Cup (the championship game of the CFL) victories in both 2009 and 2010.
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Peak Performance and Final Seasons
The 2011 season marked a statistical peak for Bratton, as he recorded a career-high 675 receiving yards and five touchdowns, bringing his career total to 20 touchdowns. However, his tenure ended on a poignant note during the 2012 Eastern Final against the Toronto Argonauts. With 39 seconds remaining on third down, Bratton missed a catch on a deflected ball that would have tied the game. The Alouettes lost possession, and the Argonauts subsequently won the 100th Grey Cup.
Bratton was released on February 1, 2013, allowing him to explore other professional opportunities before entering free agency.
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Key Facts
- NFL Teams: Atlanta Falcons (2005) and Baltimore Ravens (2005).
- NFL Europe: Started 10 games for the Cologne Centurions with 280 receiving yards.
- CFL Achievements: Two-time Grey Cup champion (2009, 2010) with the Montreal Alouettes.
- Career Highs: 675 receiving yards in 2011 and 7 receiving touchdowns in 2008.
- Special Recognition: Recipient of the 2012 Tom Pate Memorial Award for sportsmanship and community contribution.
Career Summary Table
| Organization | League | Period | Key Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Atlanta Falcons | NFL | 2005 | First professional contract |
| Baltimore Ravens | NFL | 2005 | Practice roster member |
| Cologne Centurions | NFL Europe | 2006 | 10 games started; 280 yards |
| Montreal Alouettes | CFL | 2007–2013 | 2x Grey Cup Champion; 20 career TDs |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which teams did Bratton play for in the NFL?
Bratton signed with the Atlanta Falcons in May 2005 and later spent time on the practice roster of the Baltimore Ravens in October 2005.
What were Bratton's statistics with the Cologne Centurions?
While playing for the Cologne Centurions in 2006, he started 10 games and recorded 23 catches for 280 yards and two touchdowns.
How many Grey Cups did Bratton win?
Bratton won two Grey Cup championships with the Montreal Alouettes in 2009 and 2010.
What was Bratton's most productive receiving season?
In terms of yardage, his best season was 2011 with 675 receiving yards. In terms of scoring, his best season was 2008, when he recorded seven receiving touchdowns.
What is the Tom Pate Memorial Award?
Bratton won this award in 2012, which recognizes players for outstanding sportsmanship and significant contributions to their team, community, and Association.