In a rare display of sportsmanship amid one of the NFL's fiercest rivalries, Philadelphia Eagles defensive end Brandon Graham has publicly praised Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott. Despite facing off against Prescott twice a season since 2016, Graham had nothing but respect for the Cowboys’ leader during a recent appearance on ESPN.
"I got much respect for him. He always makes us work," Graham said of Prescott. "We play in Dallas and they know us. We know them."
These words - shocking as they might be to fans of both teams - carry weight, considering Graham has spent 15 years as a cornerstone of the Eagles’ defense, a unit that has consistently ranked among the league’s elite during Prescott’s tenure in Dallas.
Prescott, who has thrown for over 31,400 yards, 213 touchdowns, and just 82 interceptions in nine NFL seasons, has proven to be a consistent threat, something Graham acknowledged. "He wants to have a balanced approach. And so when you can give him that, he's great. And I mean, he's hard to handle," Graham added.
The Eagles pass rusher even admitted that Prescott has impressed him with his precision throws over the years. "He made some throws in there after some years when we've been playing. And I'll be like, wow, OK," Graham said, reflecting on Prescott’s growth and command under center.
Despite the intense rivalry between the Eagles and Cowboys, Graham’s respect for Prescott underscores the veteran defender’s appreciation for the competition and skill Prescott brings to the field every season.
While Philadelphia and Dallas remain bitter NFC East foes, Graham’s words are a reminder that even the fiercest rivals can acknowledge each other’s greatness – especially when that respect is earned through years of hard-fought battles.