Brandon Graham’s return from retirement in October was marked by a clear intention: he was back to make an impact on the field, not just to serve as a leader or motivator for his teammates. This past Sunday, he proved just how effective he can be, contributing significantly to the Philadelphia Eagles’ impressive 31-0 victory over the Raiders.
Quarterback Jalen Hurts expressed his enthusiasm about Graham’s performance, emphasizing that Graham’s value extends far beyond his leadership role. “He’s still a hell of a player,” Hurts noted, reflecting the admiration that teammates have for Graham and his abilities at his age. Graham became the oldest player in Eagles history to record a sack, achieving two in the game, marking his 12th career multiple-sack outing.
“I’m just happy to be able to come here and have fun with the guys,” Graham stated, highlighting his enjoyment of the game and commitment to his team. Since his return, Graham has transitioned to playing primarily as a defensive tackle, particularly with young lineman Jalen Carter sidelined due to shoulder injuries. This switch has already paid off, as both of his sacks during the game came from this position, contributing to the Eagles’ first shutout in seven years.
Defensive lineman Jordan Davis praised Graham, stating, “You can teach your old dog new tricks. It’s been great to see him go out there and ball out.” This encapsulates the sentiment within the team regarding Graham’s remarkable ability to adapt and excel. With an overall team performance that saw the Eagles increase their sack total to 11 in just the last two games, Graham has played a pivotal role in revitalizing the defensive line.
Graham’s presence extends beyond the statistics; he sets a franchise milestone every time he takes the field, having played in 224 games, and he is quickly closing in on franchise great Trent Cole’s record with 84.0 career sacks, now just four shy of tying him. Davis reflected on Graham’s journey, noting how inspirational it is to witness his comeback and continued success, “You’re never too old. It’s all about a mindset.”
Historically, Graham is historically positioned, becoming only the third player aged 37 or older to record two sacks in a season for the Eagles, alongside NFL legends like Claude Humphrey and Richard Dent, the latter previously holding the record for the oldest in this category.
Graham’s career is a testament to resilience and dedication, making him not just a player but a living history of the Eagles’ franchise, celebrated by teammates who recognize his contributions both on and off the field. As defensive lineman Jaelan Phillips put it, “He deserves it more than anybody else,” fully capturing the respect Graham commands within the locker room. This success story showcases the enduring spirit of athletes who refuse to be defined by their age, inspiring countless fans and future players alike.