
PHILADELPHIA — Defensive end Brandon Graham has decided to come out of retirement and is finalizing a deal to join the Philadelphia Eagles this week, sources told ESPN’s Adam Schefter on Monday.
Graham, who was the longest-tenured player in franchise history, will suit up for his 16th season. In a Video posted on social mediateased a special announcement on his “Unblocked” podcast at 9 a.m. ET on Tuesday.
The move follows the surprise retirement of Za’Darius Smith last week. Smith led the depleted edge group with 1.5 sacks.
The Eagles entered the season with questions on the edge following the departures of Graham and Josh Sweat. The situation took another hit when Nolan Smith Jr. was placed on injured reserve last month with a triceps injury. Smith is expected to return after a Week 9 bye in Philadelphia.
Ogbo Okoronkwo was also placed on IR with a triceps injury following the Philadelphia game in Week 4.
Graham, 37, returned from a torn triceps tendon to play in the Super Bowl last season and helped the Eagles win their second championship in what was thought to be the final game of his NFL career.
“If he comes back, it’s going to be hell yeah,” Philadelphia linebacker Jordan Mailata said after Philadelphia’s win over Minnesota. “That’s Uncle right there, Uncle OG. One of the most important pieces we had in the Super Bowl last year. I think it’s going to add depth and that pop.”
Graham holds the Eagles’ record for most regular season games played (206) and ranks third in franchise history with 76.5 career sacks. He made his only Pro Bowl in 2020 and recorded his first double-digit season in 2022 with 11.
Graham’s sack of Tom Brady in the final moments of Super Bowl LII helped seal a narrow victory over the New England Patriots and deliver the first Lombardi Trophy to Philadelphia.