NEW ORLEANS — Brandon Graham has successfully navigated his first week back at practice after recovering from a torn triceps and is optimistic about playing in the upcoming Super Bowl with the Philadelphia Eagles.
“I’m feeling great,” Graham commented during the NFL’s opening night event. “I’m thrilled to have the chance to participate in this game and just soaking in the experience.”
He mentioned that his participation hinges on having a successful week of practice, but the Eagles’ defensive standout from Super Bowl 52 seems prepared for what many consider an extraordinary return.
At 36 years old, Graham was initially thought to have closed the book on his season after sustaining a triceps injury during a November 24 game against the Los Angeles Rams. He was placed on injured reserve soon after, which many interpreted as the end of what he had described as his final season in the league.
Reflecting on his injury, he acknowledged discussing the possibility of returning with others. “When I first got hurt, I thought it could be an option,” he said. “I worked tirelessly on my rehabilitation so I would be ready when the opportunity arose.”
That opportunity might present itself this Sunday when the Eagles face off against Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs.
Graham faced the Chiefs in the Super Bowl two years ago but had limited impact, managing only 18 defensive snaps on a challenging field that hindered pass rushing efforts for all players.
This experience contrasts sharply with his pivotal role five years ago when his strip-sack of Tom Brady late in the fourth quarter derailed a Patriots comeback and secured Philadelphia’s first-ever Super Bowl victory.
This moment marked the pinnacle of his 15-year NFL career, during which he has set an Eagles franchise record with 215 games played across regular and postseason and achieved 82 total sacks, placing him third in team history.
Graham remains one of just two position players and four in total still active from the Eagles’ 2017 championship squad.
While his return is sure to offer an emotional lift for the team, Graham is eager to contribute more tangibly. He tallied 3.5 sacks in the 11 games prior to his injury.
“If they didn’t believe I could make an impact, they wouldn’t bother activating me,” he stated confidently.
