Eagles defensive end Brandon Graham has been one of the most recognizable players in franchise history. From his strip sack of New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady in Super Bowl LII to battling back from an injury that appeared to end his career—only to return and play in Super Bowl LIX—Graham has made countless plays over his 15 seasons in the league.
Graham is retiring after 15 seasons, spending his entire career with the team that drafted him 13th overall in the 2010 NFL Draft. He finishes as the franchise leader in seasons played (15) and games played (206). He ranks third in sacks (76.5), trailing only Reggie White (124) and Trent Cole (85.5), and fourth in multi-sack games (17).
Graham called the 2024 season his “farewell tour” and made the most of it, recording 3.5 sacks, 20 tackles, six tackles for loss and seven quarterback hits. However, a torn triceps in Week 12 against the Rams made it seem like Graham had played his last snap. In typical fashion, he fought his way back and played 13 snaps in Super Bowl LIX, re-tearing his triceps but getting to celebrate the win over the Kansas City Chiefs.
Graham spoke with NJ Advance Media in September after a strong start to the season, playing younger than his age indicated.
“I’m not playing scared because I’m older,” Graham said. “In my mind, I’ve still got it, and I still feel like I’ve got it. I know I’m probably not as good as I was way back when, but I still feel like I have a lot to offer...I like to say that when it’s your time, do it,” Graham said. “It’s my time right now. I feel like it’s still my time, so I’m just going to take advantage of it.”
Graham had a slow start to his career, recording 3.5 sacks in his first two seasons while dealing with a torn ACL that limited him to 16 games in that span. He turned things around in 2012, finishing with 5.5 sacks, and solidified himself as a crucial member of the defense in 2016 when he was named to the Associated Press All-Pro second team. His best season came in 2022, when he returned from an Achilles injury the previous year to post 11 sacks, 35 tackles, 11 tackles for loss and two forced fumbles.
With Graham retiring, Nolan Smith and Jalyx Hunt are in line to be the starting edge rusher duo, with Azeez Ojulari, Josh Uche and Bryce Huff (if he is not traded) vying for snaps off the edge. Graham was also a vocal leader in the locker room and a mentor, often seen talking to players—both young and veteran—on the sideline and in the locker room.
Graham played a big role in Smith’s development, giving him tips and helping him stay focused after a slow start to his rookie season. Graham’s departure now means right tackle Lane Johnson, who agreed to a reworked deal Monday, is the longest-tenured member of the team.
Thank you for relying on us to provide the journalism you can trust. Please consider supporting us with a subscription.
Chris Franklin may be reached at cfranklin@njadvancemedia.com.