It’s an end of an era. Defensive end Brandon Graham announced Tuesday he is retiring from football with the 2024 season being his last one. After 15 seasons and two Super Bowl titles, Graham is indeed an NFL Legend. But also, he is a Philadelphia legend, having spent his entire career with the Philadelphia Eagles.
Brandon Graham retires
In an emotional press conference Tuesday afternoon, Graham announced his official retirement. He opened his speech by thanking both past and present members of the Eagles organization, his loved ones, and of course, the city of Philadelphia and the fans.
“This game has changed my life, but more importantly, this city has changed my life,” Graham proclaimed.
Brandon ‘the sack‘ Graham was drafted by The Philadelphia Eagles as the 13th overall pick in the 2010 NFL Draft. Throughout the duration of his professional career, he has become one of the most recognizable faces of the franchise.
In fact, Graham holds the franchise record for the most seasons plays (15) as well as games played (206).
And he isn’t called ‘the sack‘ for the sake of monikers. He currently ranks third in sacks (76.5) and fourth in multi-sack games (17).
And now with the conclusion of the 2024 season, Brandon Graham’s “farewell tour” has come to an end.
Indeed, it has been a memorable final season to say the least
In week 12 when the Eagles faced the Rams, Graham sustained an injury, tearing his triceps. Many believed it was a season-ending injury but in true fashion, the resilient defensive end returned just in to play in (and win) Super Bowl LIX.
He ends his career with two Lombardi trophies and a lasting legacy of skill, talent, ambition, and perseverance.
Who can forget that famous strip sack against Tom Brady in Super Bowl LII which helped the Eagles win their very first Lombardi.
Certainly, the city of Philadelphia will miss seeing Brandon Graham on the field.
As he hangs up his #55 jersey, Graham leaves with no regrets, only motivation:
“I gave everything I had, everything I had in this, and I don’t have any regrets,” an emotional Graham said in his opening statement. “That’s one thing I tell the young boys. Don’t have no regrets.”
Check out the sack’s career highlights below: