Philadelphia Eagles defensive end Brandon Graham has officially been cleared to return to the field after recovering from a torn triceps injury suffered 11 weeks ago. This marks a significant milestone for the 36-year-old veteran, who will be joining his team in the upcoming Super Bowl LIX against the Kansas City Chiefs.
Brandon Graham's surprising recovery
Graham’s injury occurred during a November 24th game against the Los Angeles Rams, which initially seemed to end his season. The Eagles placed him on injured reserve just two days after the injury, and many believed this would be the final chapter of his career.
However, as the Eagles continued their winning streak, including a sweep through the NFC playoffs, Graham began to entertain the idea of making a remarkable return to the field. His hope intensified after the Eagles scored 55 points in the NFC Championship Game, which he saw as a good omen, especially since his jersey number, 55, is considered a lucky number by him.
Graham returned to practice last week as a limited participant and was fully cleared by Friday’s injury report. By Saturday, he was officially added back to the Eagles' 53-man roster, confirming his participation in the Super Bowl.
Brandon Graham reflects on the journey
In an interview in New Orleans this week, Graham shared his excitement about his return:
It’ll feel great because you worked your butt off to get back, he said. I know the team worked their butt off to get here and I want to be there for them.
His emotional journey not only marks a personal triumph but highlights the dedication Graham has shown throughout his career.
Graham, who was drafted by the Eagles in the first round of the 2010 NFL Draft from Michigan, was part of the Eagles' Super Bowl-winning team in the 2017 season. He remains one of only four players from that championship squad still on the roster. While Graham had previously indicated this season would be his last, the injury has led him to reconsider, though he has yet to finalize his retirement plans.
Graham’s legacy with the Eagles includes one of the most memorable moments in franchise history: his strip-sack of Tom Brady during the 2017 Super Bowl. With just over two minutes left in the game, Graham’s crucial play helped seal the Eagles’ victory over the New England Patriots, securing a 41-33 win and the team’s first-ever Super Bowl title.
Although Graham missed most of the 2021 season due to a torn Achilles tendon, he bounced back strong, recording a career-high 11 sacks the following season. This year, he had 3 1/2 sacks before his injury. Additionally, Graham holds the franchise record with 5 1/2 career postseason sacks.
Graham’s presence will add to the Eagles' already formidable defense. Despite his absence, the team has thrived with a dynamic defensive line that includes Nolan Smith, Josh Sweat, and Jalyx Hunt. Graham is determined not to disrupt the team's rhythm but aims to contribute however he can:
I don’t want to get in the way of the rhythm of what everybody already has. If I can just add anything, I want to give everything I’ve got, he stated.