Only a select few players in the NFL have the quality of durability, and Brandon Graham of the Philadelphia Eagles is one of them. His steadfast dedication is similar to the long-lasting bond similar to Tom Brady’s time spent with the New England Patriots.
However, as the Eagles bid adieu to the NFL with a disheartening 32-9 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the wild-card round of the playoffs, questions linger about whether this game marked Graham’s farewell from the sport that he’s graced with unparalleled dedication throughout his illustrious career in Philadelphia.
Will Brandon Graham return next season?
Following the Eagles’ heartbreaking defeat to the Buccaneers, talk of Brandon Graham’s possible retirement gained traction. Graham, however, made it clear that he isn’t prepared to call it quits on his career just yet. The defensive captain of the Eagles said that he would want to play a 15th season, but only with the Eagles, hinting to a possible farewell tour.
Graham’s announcement brings a ray of hope for Eagles fans after the crushing defeat. If he returns for another season, he could become the first Eagles player to reach 200 career games, adding a milestone to his impressive career.
This isn’t the first time Graham has expressed his wish to play a 15th season with the Eagles. Two years ago, he shared the same goal, stating, “My goal is to finish on 15 (years) if I could as an Eagle,” per CBS Sports.
In March, Graham showcased his loyalty to the organization by declining free agency and agreeing to a deal worth up to $6 million. Before officially declaring his intent for another season, he commented on the upcoming changes in personnel, particularly in the coaching staff. With the head coach’s job on the line following the Eagles’ loss, Graham acknowledged the imminent alterations.
“We know next year the team is going to be different. The coaches are going to be different, everything’s going to be different, so it’s more about trying to take advantage and help some people with what’s going to happen next year.”
Graham is part of a trio of Eagles legends facing an uncertain future, alongside Jason Kelce and Fletcher Cox. Both Cox and Graham are set to be free agents this offseason.
Looking back at Brandon Graham’s Eagles career so far
Brandon Graham became an Eagles cornerstone very soon after being chosen with the thirteenth overall choice in the first round of the 2010 NFL Draft. Having played in Philadelphia for all 14 of his NFL seasons, he has an unmatched level of commitment to the franchise. With an astounding total of 195 games, it tied him with Chuck Bednarik for the most seasons played with the team.
Throughout his career with the Phillies, the pinnacle of Graham’s career came in 2018, when he played a pivotal role in the Eagles’ Super Bowl LII triumph, securing his place as a Super Bowl champion. His dominance continued in the NFL, earning him a Pro Bowl selection in 2020.
In 2022, Graham achieved a significant milestone by recording his first double-digit sack season, amassing an impressive 11 sacks. Despite missing a substantial part of the season with a torn Achilles tendon, his contribution to the Eagles shone through.
Furthermore, he stands fourth on the franchise’s all-time sack list with 73 sacks and shares the second spot in team history for forced fumbles with 21, tying with Seth Joyner.
Graham’s influence on the field has been undeniable in the 2023 season as well. He recorded 467 total tackles, 73 sacks, 21 forced fumbles, 7 fumble recoveries, 9 pass deflections, and a defensive touchdown.
As Graham contemplates another season with the Eagles, he has the opportunity to break the record for the most seasons played with the franchise.
Do you think that the Eagles should let him break the record by offering him another contract extension deal?
