Philadelphia Eagles: Brandon Graham named NFC Defensive Player of the Week

The Philadelphia Eagles — and their fans — took over FedEx Field last Sunday in a blowout win over their former quarterback Carson Wentz and the Washington Commanders.

It was a complete victory for Philadelphia that saw the offense control the game through the air as Jalen Hurts threw for 340 yards and three touchdowns. As dominant as the offense was, the defense was even more so to the tune of 9 sacks and two forced fumbles — one recovered.

For the second week in a row, Jonathan Gannon had the Eagles’ defense playing at the top of their game except, instead of the secondary being behind the strong effort — as was the case against the Minnesota Vikings —, it was the defensive line that had their way with Washington. Also, for the second week in a row, the Philadelphia Eagles had a member of their defense named the NFC Defensive Player of the Week, this time, it was Brandon Graham who earned the honor.

Philadelphia Eagles DE Brandon Graham named NFC Defensive Player of the Week.

Graham finished Sunday’s game with six tackles, two and a half sacks, five quarterback hits, a pass defended, and a forced fumble. As impressive as those numbers are, they are especially impressive considering the past year the 2010 first-round pick endured.

In Week 2 of last season, against the San Francisco 49ers, Brandon Graham tore his Achilles late in the first half. He would miss the rest of the season.

An Achilles tear is quite difficult for an athlete to deal with, especially for one whose game is based on their burst. It’s understandable even more difficult when that athlete is north of 30 — Brandon Graham is 34.

Despite the injury and the constant battle against Father Time, Brandon Graham has fought his way back, looking improved each week this season, culminating in this award.

Fighting is nothing new for Graham; however, he has done so since being drafted. Over his career, he’s been called many things. Undersized, a tweener, a bust, eventually even, a Super Bowl Champion.

Now, for the first time in his career, Graham can also be called the NFC Defensive Player of the Week.