The Philadelphia Eagles have received a massive jolt of veteran leadership and energy with the official announcement that defensive end Brandon Graham is coming out of retirement to rejoin the team for a 16th NFL season.
The move, which became official on Tuesday morning, ends Graham’s brief eight-month retirement and instantly bolsters an Eagles defence that has been decimated by injuries and unexpected departures.
The return of the two-time Super Bowl champion comes at a crucial time for the 5-2 Eagles, who are chasing another deep playoff run but have struggled to generate consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks this season.
Brandon Graham
(Getty Images)
The perfect storm that triggered a comeback
The fan-favourite retired in March after a storybook ending, returning from a torn triceps to play in and win Super Bowl LIX.
However, a defensive injury crisis has created an immediate need for his presence.
The unexpected retirement of veteran edge rusher Za’Darius Smith last week, coupled with injuries to Nolan Smith (on Injured Reserve) and Azeez Ojulari, created a glaring hole on the defensive line.
Graham, 37, had kept himself in shape and saw the opportunity to help the franchise where he holds the all-time record for most regular-season games played (206).
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Graham confirmed the news on his podcast, Brandon Graham Unblocked, stating:
"I’m coming back, baby. I’m excited.
"No expectations, just excited to get after it." He added, “I know that they got everything that they need and can't wait to add to just add a little more value.”
A legacy player bringing unparalleled energy
Brandon Graham’s value extends far beyond his 76.5 career sacks.
Current Eagles players expressed immense excitement, emphasising the emotional core Graham brings to the locker room.
Defensive end Jalyx Hunt stated, “Shout out BG. He’s got years of experience, a lot of years of experience.
"We’ll just use him as a well and excited to have him back.”
Linebacker Nakobe Dean echoed the sentiment, highlighting that Graham’s mere presence is a factor: “The energy that BG brings is unparalleled.
"So, just to have a guy in the locker room like that, it would be great. And he still can ball, for sure.”
While Graham will likely be managed in a rotational role, his return is a significant emotional boost for the team.
His presence ensures that the spirit of the team that delivered the iconic strip-sack of Tom Brady in Super Bowl LII is alive and well for the 2025 campaign.
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