Brandon Graham Announces Retirement from the NFL, Set to Hang Up Cleats on August 15th
Philadelphia, PA – April 20, 2025
Philadelphia Eagles legend and defensive end Brandon Graham officially announced his retirement date from the NFL on Sunday, marking the end of a remarkable 15-year career that has left a permanent imprint on the city of Philadelphia and the game of football. In an emotional press conference held at the NovaCare Complex, Graham declared that he will retire on August 15, 2025, just weeks before the start of the upcoming NFL season.
“I’ll retire on the 15th of August,” Graham said through tears, standing at the podium in front of current and former teammates, coaches, and media. “That’s the day I say goodbye to the game that gave me everything. I gave it my all, and now it’s time to step aside with peace in my heart.”
From First-Round Pick to Philly Icon
Selected 13th overall in the 2010 NFL Draft out of Michigan, Brandon Graham arrived in Philadelphia with high expectations. Though his early years were marred by injuries and growing pains, Graham developed into one of the most consistent and beloved players in franchise history. His transformation from a young, unproven pass rusher to a dependable team captain is a testament to his resilience, character, and relentless work ethic.
Graham’s NFL journey spans 15 seasons, all of them with the Eagles — a rare feat in the modern NFL era. He currently holds the franchise record for most games played by a defensive player and is second in all-time sacks behind Reggie White.
Over the course of his career, Graham has tallied:
- 78.5 sacks
- 21 forced fumbles
- 9 fumble recoveries
- 3 defensive touchdowns
- 1 unforgettable strip sack on Tom Brady in Super Bowl LII
That strip sack — which led to a fumble recovery that essentially sealed the victory — is etched in the memory of every Eagles fan and will forever remain one of the most iconic moments in franchise history.
“A Lifelong Eagle”
Graham made it clear that he never considered playing anywhere else. Despite opportunities to chase money or rings elsewhere, he remained loyal to Philadelphia throughout his entire career.
“I could never see myself wearing anything other than midnight green,” Graham said with a smile. “This city embraced me. This team believed in me. I’ve been through it all here, and I wouldn’t change a thing.”
The 36-year-old also emphasized how proud he was to retire on his own terms.
“I’m walking away healthy, happy, and grateful,” he added. “I still love the game, but I know this is the right time. I want to be there for my family, and I want to give back to this community in a new way.”
Reactions Pour In
Tributes to Graham began flooding social media the moment his announcement became public. Teammates past and present — from Fletcher Cox and Jason Kelce to Jalen Hurts and Lane Johnson — praised Graham for his leadership, passion, and unwavering positivity.
“BG is the heartbeat of this team,” said Eagles center Jason Kelce, who himself retired earlier this year. “He brought the energy every single day. He made you want to be better. And that smile — man, it’s contagious.”
Eagles Head Coach Nick Sirianni called Graham a “true warrior” and “the ultimate Eagle.”
“There’s nobody like Brandon Graham,” Sirianni said. “He led by example, inspired everyone in the locker room, and never took a day off. He’s what Philadelphia is all about.”
General Manager Howie Roseman also released a statement saying: “Brandon Graham represents everything we value in this organization — toughness, loyalty, consistency, and heart. He’ll always be part of the Eagles family.”
What’s Next?
Though Graham is stepping away from the playing field, he hinted that retirement doesn’t mean disappearing. He expressed interest in working in media, mentoring young players, and possibly joining the Eagles in a front-office or coaching role down the line.
“I love football too much to walk away completely,” he said. “If I can help the next generation of Eagles, whether that’s in coaching, scouting, or even just speaking — I’m all for it.”
He also noted that he wants to spend more time with his family and give back through community outreach programs in Philadelphia and his hometown of Detroit.
A Career Worth Celebrating
Brandon Graham’s retirement marks the end of an era, not just for the Eagles, but for the city that embraced him as one of its own. His career was defined not just by statistics, but by heart, determination, and a tireless commitment to excellence.
The Eagles plan to honor Graham with a celebration during the 2025 preseason and are already discussing the possibility of inducting him into the team’s Hall of Fame — an honor that seems inevitable.
As he prepares for life after football, Graham leaves behind a legacy that will endure for generations.
“I just hope the fans know how much I appreciated every moment,” Graham said. “You believed in me, you cheered for me, and you let me be me. I’ll never forget it. Philly, I love you forever.”
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