Brandon Graham’s unexpected return? Eagles Veteran Could Play in Super Bowl LIX
Philadelphia Eagles fans were dealt a blow in Week 12 when longtime edge rusher Brandon Graham suffered a torn triceps, leading many to believe his season—and possibly his career in Philadelphia—had come to an end.
Back in November, ESPN’s Tim McManus reported that Graham had confirmed he would miss the rest of the season after sustaining the injury during the Eagles’ 37-20 victory over the Los Angeles Rams. Given that the 36-year-old veteran was playing on a one-year, $4 million contract, it seemed likely that his tenure in Philadelphia was nearing its conclusion.
However, in a surprising turn of events, Graham may be on track to return just in time for the Eagles’ Super Bowl LIX showdown against the Kansas City Chiefs on February 9.
Graham’s Status Remains Uncertain
Although there has been no official confirmation of his availability, Graham himself has not ruled out the possibility of playing in the big game. Speaking on 94.1 WIP, Graham indicated that he is taking his recovery “one day at a time.”
“I haven’t heard anything yet,” he admitted, adding that he’s simply excited to be part of this moment with his team. Despite the injury, Graham noted that he’s feeling good and described this as the “easiest” injury he has dealt with in his career. Upper-body injuries, he explained, are generally easier to recover from compared to lower-body ones.
His focus has been on rebuilding muscle and regaining strength while ensuring he doesn’t suffer a setback. Ultimately, his return will depend on the medical staff’s evaluation in the coming days.
Graham’s Super Bowl Legacy
Graham is no stranger to the Super Bowl stage, having already played in two championship games for the Eagles. His most iconic moment came in Super Bowl LII, when his strip sack of New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady helped secure Philadelphia’s first-ever Super Bowl title.
More recently, he was part of the Eagles’ Super Bowl LVII squad that fell to the Chiefs in a narrow 38-35 defeat following the 2022 season.
Before his injury, Graham had recorded 3.5 sacks in 2024, including a key sack on Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford in Week 12. Over the course of his career, he has established himself as one of the Eagles’ most consistent defensive players, earning All-Pro honors in 2016 and a Pro Bowl selection in 2020.
Originally drafted 16th overall in 2010 out of Michigan, Graham has spent his entire career in Philadelphia, amassing nearly $97.7 million in earnings.
Eagles’ Uncertain Future at Edge Rusher
While the Eagles boasted one of the NFL’s top defenses in 2024, their pass-rushing depth could be in jeopardy next season. Graham’s uncertain status is just one part of the equation—Philadelphia may also lose standout edge rusher Josh Sweat, who is set to become a free agent in 2025.
Though Nolan Smith is emerging as a young talent on the edge, Sweat remains the team’s most dominant outside rusher. According to Pro Football Network (PFN), Sweat ranks as the No. 3 overall free agent heading into the offseason, with a projected contract of three years, $45 million.
With the Eagles currently projected to have just $18.9 million in cap space next season, retaining Sweat may not be financially feasible. PFN notes that the lack of elite pass-rushers in free agency could drive up Sweat’s value, making him even harder for the Eagles to afford.
What’s Next for Graham and the Eagles?
As Super Bowl LIX approaches, all eyes will be on Graham’s recovery. If he manages to suit up, it would be a remarkable comeback story for the longtime Eagle and an emotional boost for the team.
Regardless of whether Graham plays or not, his future beyond this season remains uncertain. If this is indeed his final run in Philadelphia, he will leave behind a legacy as one of the franchise’s greatest defenders and a key figure in its Super Bowl history.
For now, the Eagles must focus on preparing for their rematch against the Chiefs, knowing that significant changes could be coming to their defensive front in the offseason.
