At a Glance
- 37-year-old Brandon Graham will play Week 18 vs. the Commanders after coming out of retirement.
- He has 79.5 career sacks, just behind Reggie White and Trent Cole; another sack could put him in the 80-sack club.
- The Eagles aim to move from a 3-seed to a 2-seed if they win and the Bears lose.
- Why it matters: It’s Graham’s 215th regular-season game and a chance for the Eagles to boost playoff positioning.
The Philadelphia Eagles have rested most of their starters for Week 18, but Brandon Graham will be back on the field. After being pulled from retirement mid-season, Graham is eager to lead the younger players and chase a milestone. The game could also improve the Eagles’ playoff seed.
The Return
Graham was brought back after the Super Bowl win, and has appeared in 8 games this season, recording 3 sacks in just 85 snaps. He’s now playing his 215th regular-season game, the most in franchise history.
- 215 regular-season games
- 79.5 career sacks
- 3 sacks in 85 snaps
Leadership & Motivation
Graham says the key is communication and staying focused on the game plan. He wants to support the young teammates and keep them confident.
Brandon Graham stated:
> “I feel good, man,” Graham said. “Anytime you get an opportunity to go out there and play, especially because we’re trying to win too, it’s like any other week. You prepare the same, you enjoy the opportunities whenever they come because there’s a lot of people wish they could even just be in the game. I always take it as another opportunity to go out and put our talents on display.”
Brandon Graham added:
> “All it is, is communication,” Graham said. “Communicating with each other, knowing exactly what it is that you already know. Just don’t be hesitant. Whatever the call is, make your call and stay with it. As long as we’re all running the same thing, that’s all that matters. I just want to keep encouraging them. I kind of look at it like they the main characters and I’m just the supporting staff out there, just trying to support and be there for the guys. So excited for them because people be wanting their opportunities, so here it is.”
Playoff Stakes
If the Eagles defeat the Commanders and the Bears fall to the Lions, the team would climb from a 3-seed to a 2-seed in the NFC. That move would give them a more favorable path in the postseason.
| Current Seed | Potential Seed |
|---|---|
| 3-seed | 2-seed |
The Eagles have ruled out six players on their final injury report, but the rest of the starters will likely sit.
Key Takeaways
- Graham’s return marks his 215th game and a chance to reach 80 sacks.
- The Eagles could improve their playoff seed to 2-seed with a win.
- The game gives young players a chance to play and learn under veteran leadership.
With Graham on the field and the stakes high, the Eagles look to seize the opportunity to climb the playoff ladder while giving their younger talent a taste of game-day pressure.
