Two-time Super Bowl champion Brandon Graham retired from the NFL after spending his entire 15-year career with the Philadelphia Eagles. Graham, drafted in the first round of the 2010 NFL Draft out of Michigan, thanked everyone for their support and expressed his gratitude for his time with the team. He reflected on his journey, growth, and love for the city, fans, and the team. Graham holds the record for playing the most games in Eagles history with 206 and is third on the franchise’s all-time sack list with 76.5 sacks. Eagles chairman and CEO Jeffrey Lurie praised Graham as the embodiment of everything one would want in a Philadelphia Eagle, highlighting his positive energy, infectious personality, and the integral role he played in the team’s success.
In the Eagles’ Super Bowl win over the New England Patriots in 2018, Graham made an iconic play by strip-sacking Tom Brady with 2:11 left in the fourth quarter to secure a 41-33 victory for the Eagles. Graham’s performance in this game solidified his place in Eagles history. He also played a significant role in the Eagles’ most recent Super Bowl win over the Kansas City Chiefs in February, despite missing 11 weeks due to a triceps injury. Graham returned to play 13 snaps in the victory but re-injured his triceps, ending his final season. He recorded 3.5 sacks and 20 tackles in 11 regular-season games last year, showcasing his talent and determination on the field.
Brandon Graham’s retirement marks the end of a successful career that saw him become a beloved figure in Philadelphia sports. Known for his toughness, physicality, and talent as a player, Graham’s impact extended beyond the field. His infectious positivity and energy were evident to everyone who interacted with him, making it impossible to have a bad day in his presence. Graham’s contributions to the Eagles’ success over the years were acknowledged by the team’s leadership, including Lurie, who praised him as a special player and person who exemplified the spirit of the franchise. Graham’s legacy will endure as one of the most iconic figures in Eagles history.
As Graham bid farewell to the NFL, he expressed his gratitude to God for guiding him throughout his career and thanked his fans, teammates, and the city of Philadelphia for their unwavering support. His emotional press conference reflected the deep connection he felt with the team and the city, highlighting the impact that his time with the Eagles had on his life. Graham’s retirement announcement marked the end of an era for Eagles fans, who will always remember his iconic plays, championship victories, and unwavering commitment to the team. Despite facing challenges and setbacks throughout his career, Graham’s resilience, dedication, and love for the game never wavered, leaving a lasting legacy in Philadelphia sports history.
