Eagles legend Brandon Graham announces football career is officially over

Eagles legend Brandon Graham officially announced on Tuesday morning that his NFL career is over. Brandon Graham was a special guest at Jefferson Health's 'Breakfast with the Birds' pep rally on Tuesday and was asked if his playing days are officially over. Eagles legend Brandon Graham announced on Tuesday morning that he will not be returning for a 17th season in the NFL. The 38-year-old, who came out of retirement during the 2025 season, said on Tuesday morning that he's hanging up his cleats once again. 'Everybody, I'm officially done,' Graham said at an Eagles pep rally at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital on Tuesday morning. 'Y'all hearing it from me first. But let me tell you this: They are in great hands. I mean, Jordan Davis, I'm telling you, he is a guy that's going to get the defense going. On offense, I can't wait for Jalen to prove them haters wrong as always and get us back to the promised land. 'I'm going to still be around, I'm still giving wisdom, still helping the guys. Because, of course, it's an adjustment for me, but it's a great adjustment. Because it's all about my kids and my family, trying to make sure I'm there for that. And just spreading the love everywhere. For me, I'm done. Just letting y'all know so y'all ain't gotta ask me no more. I'm ready to move on. ' Graham earlier this offseason expressed some interest in possibly returning for the 2026 season, but said he would be fine if that didn't happen too. There just didn't appear to be a spot for Graham on this roster. The Eagles bring back Jalyx Hunt and Nolan Smith at edge rusher but also added veterans Jonathan Greenard, Arnold Ebiketie and A.J. Epenesa for this season. After the Eagles beat the Chiefs in Super Bowl LIX to cap off the 2024 season, Graham decided to walk away on a high note into retirement. But he eventually decided to return during the 2025 season. Last year, Graham played in 9 games after signing in October. He logged a total of 113 defensive snaps and had 3 sacks, 8 tackles and 2 TFLs. Graham is the Eagles' all-time leader in seasons played and games played . The Eagles selected Graham with the No. 13 overall pick out of Michigan back in the 2010 NFL Draft. He was GM Howie Roseman's very first draft pick and, after a slow start to his career, went on to become a two-time Super Bowl champion and a legend in Philly. 'I'm just excited,' Graham said. 'The 16 years I played on that field, I don't have no regrets. I enjoyed it and now it's just time to be either in the stands or on the sideline whenever I choose to make that next transition, step. I want my kids to be able to continue to see me working. Just know I ain't going too far. '