Fans can’t wait to see Brandon Graham rocking the Philadelphia Eagles jersey yet again. However, it’s not all about what the football legend can still do as a defensive end. After fifteen terrific seasons and countless moments where he took charge, Graham knows how the game works like the back of his hand. And his latest comment tells us what could be next for him if‌ an injury holds him back. 

The 37-year-old athlete is well aware that talks about his leadership role have taken center stage. However, he still wants to contribute to the field as a player. “I’m trying to let that sneak up on them! I ain’t trying to talk about it. I’m more trying to talk about the leadership role. But of course that’s on my mind. Of course, if I couldn’t play, they’d just tell me to go be a coach,” Graham said.

Brandon’s reply to Zach Berman tells us how much the Eagles and head coach Nick Sirianni value his experience and presence beyond his game. Even if the star DE cannot continue playing if and when an injury leaves him sidelined, he already knows that the Eagles’ front office and the HC will call him back to take up a coaching role. After all, the star defensive end has dedicated his entire career to the Eagles after joining in 2010. He has played over 200 regular-season games for Philly, is a two-time Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year nominee, and has led the franchise to two Super Bowl wins.  

Meanwhile, in his tweet, Zack couldn’t help but draw parallels between Brandon and former NFL player Chris Long. He played an important role in the New England Patriots’ Super Bowl LI win in 2017. Still, Long turned back to Philly and signed a two-year deal. His objective was clear from the get-go: He wanted to play.

“It wasn’t any bad blood,” Long had revealed during a press conference with the Philadelphia media. “I enjoy the most is playing in a situation that allows me to be proud of what I put on the field every Sunday. Pretty quickly after the season, I was able to be straight up with the coaches there, who I admire a lot, that I was probably going to look to go elsewhere.” 

Much like Chris, Graham is all set to make his big comeback as the reigning Super Bowl champ. 

Brandon Graham gears up for his Eagles return

During the 2024 NFL season, Brandon Graham suffered a triceps injury and went through intense rehab to recover. However, his wish to play against the Kansas City Chiefs came true last minute when he became officially active for Super Bowl LIX, completing his return from the injury that was initially expected to prematurely end his 15th NFL season. Everybody thought Graham closed his NFL chapter when he officially announced his retirement in March. But only he wasn’t done! 

The defense player called off his retirement and signed a one-year deal to kick-start his 16th season with Philadelphia. And what’s on his mind with the comeback? No expectations, just excitement. Last week, Brandon joined the team for his first practice session.

Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio wanted Graham to return to the team and “light the fire.”  

“I do feel like we have an opportunity of a lifetime right now with all these people on the team. [General manager] Howie [Roseman] has done a great job putting together this team, and I just felt like I’ve still got a duty to come in and help since I feel like I still have a little juice left,” he said.

While we’re yet to see what role Graham will take on as the season progresses, his presence can definitely electrify the team’s spirits.