Brandon Graham Returns to Eagles to Strengthen Pass Rush

Former Philadelphia Eagles pass rusher Brandon Graham is coming out of retirement to rejoin the team, a crucial move following the recent announcement of defensive end Za’Darius Smith‘s retirement. This development was reported by CBS Sports’ Jeff Kerr, who highlighted the potential impact of Graham’s return on the defending Super Bowl champions.

Graham, 37, hinted at a significant announcement during his podcast on Monday night. His decision to return comes as the Eagles face challenges in their defensive lineup. Smith, who had signed a one-year, $9 million contract with the team in September, unexpectedly announced his retirement, leaving a void in the Eagles’ pass rush.

Graham, a veteran who played for the Eagles for 15 seasons, previously announced his retirement after contributing to the team’s victory in Super Bowl LIX against the Kansas City Chiefs. He suffered a torn triceps muscle during Week 12 against the Los Angeles Rams last season but made a remarkable return to play in the Super Bowl. Over his career, Graham has set the franchise record for the most regular-season games played, with 206 appearances, and recorded 76.5 career sacks.

His former teammate, Jason Kelce, spoke about Graham’s potential return during an appearance on 94WIP. Kelce expressed belief that if Graham desires to come back, the Eagles should certainly offer him that opportunity, especially given their need for depth in the pass-rushing department. “It felt like he got convinced that it was time to hang it up,” Kelce noted. “I think at the end of the day, if Brandon in his heart wants to come back, I think the Eagles should damn sure give him that opportunity because I think they need that.”

The Eagles are currently grappling with a depleted pass rush. In addition to losing Graham, they also lost Josh Sweat and Milton Williams to free agency, with Sweat signing with the Arizona Cardinals and Williams joining the New England Patriots. Adding to their woes, Nolan Smith Jr. was placed on injured reserve in September due to a triceps injury, and Ogbo Okoronkwo is also on injured reserve after a similar injury sustained in Week 4.

With Graham’s experience and skill set, he will bolster a pass rush that includes Jalyx Hunt, Josh Uche, Moro Ojomo, Azeez Ojulari, and Patrick Johnson. The Eagles, currently holding a record of 5-2, are looking to enhance their performance as they prepare to face the New York Giants, who have a record of 2-5. Notably, the Giants previously upset the Eagles in Week 6, adding further urgency to Philadelphia’s quest for improvement.

Graham’s return is poised to provide a much-needed lift to the Eagles’ defensive line, as they aim to reinforce their roster and reclaim momentum in the ongoing season.