2022 will be the 13th season for defensive end Brandon Graham. The 34-year-old has spent his entire career in Philadelphia, and is entering the last season on his current deal. Though free agency is still another year away, Graham is already planning for what’s ahead — and it may not include the Philadelphia Eagles.
A 13-YEAR STINT WITH THE EAGLES
Graham’s career in Philadelphia began in 2010 when the Eagles selected him in the first round of the NFL Draft. He quickly made a name for himself on and off the field, becoming a fan favorite.
In March 2021, the team signed Graham to a two-year contract extension, worth about $20 million. The deal replaced his (then) current contract, which ran for one year, and was set to give him $13 million.
In 161 games, the defensive end completed 416 combined tackles, 59 sacks, 19 forced fumbles, seven fumble recoveries, seven pass deflections, and one defensive touchdown. He became a Super Bowl champion in 2018 in a victory over the New England Patriots, and was a first-time selection for the Pro Bowl in 2020. Adding to his resume, Graham is currently the longest tenured athlete in Philadelphia.
THE FUTURE OF BRANDON GRAHAM
Graham will now be entering 2022, after coming off an Achilles injury that limited his 2021 season to just two games. Pairing his injury with his age, many wondered if he would return, but the defensive end is ready for more.
During a recent appearance on JAKIB Media’s “Sports Take” show, Graham stated, “I’m here right now, I’ve got another opportunity. It’s the last year on my deal, they’re gonna honor me for this year, and whatever role it is, man just enjoy it. Because you didn’t have football last year, you had time with the loss and you still got one year left of the football if that’s what you choose to do. And I’m like, man, I’m about to enjoy it.”
Brandon Graham may be focused on the 2022 season in Philadelphia, but free agency is looming. Earlier this offseason, he stated that he wanted to give the NFL 15 years, but will the Eagles sign him again for the final two? Graham would be 36 years old by then and welcomes the thought of another team.
He stated, “You know what? I would — but it would only be probably for a year. The kids are together right now and they’re settled, so that’s always — I know they wouldn’t up and leave right away — so being away from them and the family that would only probably last a year.”
“We’d see how it works out, but I’d probably end up playing 14 (years) instead of 15. My goal is to finish on 15 if I could, as an Eagle.”
For now fans should focus on Graham returning. In a little over two months, the 2022 season will begin and he’s practicing without any physical restrictions. Graham will join defensive end teammates, Derek Barnett, Josh Sweat, Tarron Jackson, Cameron Malveaux, and Matt Leo.
