Eagles franchise legend announces retirement: ‘I'm officially done'

Franchise legend Brandon Graham won't be back with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2026. Graham, after 16 seasons with the Eagles, announced his retirement on Tuesday morning. Graham shared the news at a Jefferson Health event, according to NBC Philadelphia. 'I am officially done,' Graham said at a Jefferson Health event, per NBC Philadelphia. 'Y'all hearing it from me first. 'But let me tell you this, they're in great hands. ... I'm still gonna be around. I'm still around, giving wisdom, helping the guys. 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.' Graham hangs up his cleats as the longest-tenured Eagles player of all-time. The two-time Super Bowl champ ranks third in franchise history with 79 1/2 sacks. Graham, 38, retired after the 2024 season but came out of retirement during the 2025 campaign. His status for the 2026 season was up in the air. But with Graham not signing again with the Eagles ahead of training camp, there was an expectation that he was to retire. Graham returned to the team last October after Za'Darius Smith retired and the Eagles had a need at edge rusher. Graham didn't make a significant impact as a defensive end. But he did make some plays as a defensive tackle. Graham had three sacks in his final four games of the regular season, taking advantage of third-down passing situations. Graham also served as a veteran voice in the locker room. There was a thought that Graham could provide that for the Eagles again in 2026. But PhillyVoice's Jimmy Kempski reported of an 'impasse' in negotiations. 'My understanding is that the Eagles made an offer, but it was near the veteran minimum,' Kempski wrote. 'I don't think BG is trying to break the bank by any stretch, but he also doesn't want to play for veteran minimum-like money. So I think that's where the impasse is.' The Eagles also moved on in revamping and reinforcing their defensive line this offseason. After losing Jaelan Phillips to free agency, the Eagles traded for 2024 Pro Bowl selection Jonathan Greenard. They also signed Arnold Ebiketie and A.J. Epenesa to complement Greenard, Jalyx Hunt and Nolan Smith. On the interior, the Eagles have Jalen Carter, Jordan Davis, Moro Ojomo, Byron Young and Ty Robinson. With Carter, Davis and Ojomo, it's arguably the strongest trio of DTs in the NFL. In other words, the Eagles feel like they're set — without Graham returning for a 17th season. ©2026 Advance Local Media LLC. Visit pennlive.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. Error! There was an error processing your request.