Philadelphia Eagles defensive end Brandon Graham has announced his retirement from the NFL for a second time. The 16-year veteran made the announcement at age 38 during an Eagles pep rally at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital.
"Everybody, I’m officially done," Graham said Tuesday. "Y’all hearing it from me first. But let me tell you this: They are in great hands. I mean, Jordan Davis, I’m telling you, he is a guy that’s going to get the defense going. On offense, I can’t wait for Jalen [Hurts] to prove them haters wrong as always and get us back to the promised land."
Graham, who had previously announced his retirement last year, returned to the team in late October after Za’Darius Smith retired. He played in nine games during the past season, recording three sacks. He also participated in the Eagles’ wild-card round loss to the 49ers.
The veteran concluded his career as an Eagle, having won Super Bowl 2025 with the team in a victory over the Chiefs. Left tackle Jordan Mailata noted the significance of securing a second Lombardi Trophy for Graham, stating it "meant the world" and that he was "special" to see go out as a champion.
Graham's career, which spanned 16 seasons, included a memorable strip sack of Tom Brady in Super Bowl LII in 2018. He finished with 79.5 career sacks. He achieved seasons with at least eight sacks four times, including a career-high 11 sacks in 2022. In 13 playoff games, Graham accumulated 5.5 sacks and 18 tackles.
"I enjoyed it," Graham said, "and now it’s just time to be either in the stands or on the sideline whenever I choose to make that next transition, step." He indicated that his decision to retire again was influenced by a desire to prioritize his children and family.
