At a Glance
- Brandon Graham is eyeing a 17th NFL season in 2026 after coming out of retirement in 2025
- The 37-year-old recorded 3 sacks in 113 defensive snaps across nine late-season games
- He holds Eagles records for 16 seasons and 215 games played
- Why it matters: A return would extend the longest career in franchise history and add depth to a Super Bowl contender
Brandon Graham isn’t closing the door on football just yet. After reversing his retirement to rejoin the Eagles midway through the 2025 season, the franchise’s all-time leader in both seasons and games played says he is preparing as though his career will continue into 2026.
Speaking on the most recent episode of his Brandon Graham Unblocked podcast, the 37-year-old edge rusher confirmed he will train this off-season with the assumption he could be back for a 17th year. Graham stressed that the decision is not finalized, but he wants to keep his options open.
> “I can get the message real early if that ain’t the deal,” Graham said. “For me, I’m still going to be working out. It’s either I’m going to be working out like I’m training to play until I know. And then if it ain’t, then it’s cool too.”
Return Produced Immediate Impact
Graham signed with the club in November after beginning the year away from the game. He appeared in nine regular-season contests, logging 113 defensive snaps and finishing with 3 sacks-production that exceeded expectations for a situational role.
The veteran split time between outside linebacker and defensive tackle, showing the positional flexibility that has become his trademark. Coaches valued his ability to slide inside on passing downs, a look the Eagles had lacked before his return.
Records Within Reach
Already the organization’s career leader with:
- 16 seasons in midnight green
- 215 regular-season and postseason games
Another campaign would push both totals further out of reach for future challengers. Graham downplayed the historical implications, framing any additional year as “extra bonus” rather than necessity.
> “All this is just extra bonus for me,” he said. “I don’t want to put no added pressure. I don’t want nobody to feel like I’m coming for them because I’m not. I’m just happy to be here.”
Off-Season Mindset
Although the club has yet to signal formal interest in a reunion, Graham intends to maintain an NFL-caliber training regimen until a definitive answer arrives. He acknowledged the mental shift required to contemplate life after football, noting he has “a bunch of opportunities” waiting off the field.
> “Sometimes I just have to get uncomfortable to actually just do it,” he said of post-career ventures. “But if I can, I will this year.”
Championship Window Still Open
Graham emphasized the locker-room dynamic as a major draw, praising the camaraderie of the 2025 squad that advanced deep into January. The chance to chase a second ring remains a motivating factor.
> “I’m trying to win another [championship] if we can. I mean, why not?”
Looking Ahead
The defensive line room heads into the off-season with several expiring contracts and possible retirements, meaning depth could again be at a premium. Graham’s familiarity with the scheme and coaching staff would shorten any learning curve if he elects to play.
He will turn 38 in April, an age at which few edge rushers remain effective. Still, the late-season film showed enough burst to suggest situational pass-rush duty remains viable.
Perspective on Closure
Having already stepped away once, Graham said he feels at peace whenever the end arrives. The 2025 return validated his belief that he could still contribute at a high level.
> “I really was dealing with that before,” he said of retirement uncertainty. “I was hyped that I knew I still had a little something in the tank and maybe a little more.”
Key Takeaways
- Graham’s training plans signal genuine openness to Year 17
- Eagles must weigh roster value against developing younger talent
- Another season would cement unbreakable longevity records
- Final decision likely hinges on team interest and physical feedback this spring
