Eagles Honor Veteran Who May Be Leaving With Gesture Before Week 14 Game
By Jovan Alford
The Philadelphia Eagles were dealt a huge loss a couple of weeks ago when they lost veteran defensive end Brandon Graham to a season-ending triceps injury in Week 12 against the Los Angeles Rams.
The 36-year-old Graham was having a good season under defensive coordinator Vic Fangio. At the end of last season, Graham hinted that the 2024 season could be his last year.
When he spoke with reporters at the end of the Rams’ game, Graham was emotional, realizing that could’ve been his last game in an Eagles uniform. However, the Eagles honored the vet for his work on and off the field, nominating Graham for the 2024 Walter Payton Man of the Year Award.
It’s the second time in the last three years that the Eagles have nominated Graham for one of the league’s most prestigious awards.
The 15-year veteran is involved in many off-the-field causes and charities that help those in the Philadelphia area and his hometown in Detroit. Graham is thankful for the nomination and has nothing but good things to say about those who have supported him.
"It's a blessing to be honored for the second time as the Eagles' Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year," said Graham via the Eagles team website. "This team, city, and fanbase have given so much to me and my family over the years. I'm very grateful for that and it's what drives me to continue serving this amazing community and Eagles fans around the world. This is a special recognition and I would like to thank everyone, especially my teammates and coaches, who have supported me on my professional journey."
Graham will go down as one of the best players to put on an Eagles uniform as he’s had so many special moments, including his strip sack of Tom Brady in Super Bowl LII.
Even though it's disappointing to see his 2024 season end abruptly, the Eagles hope Graham wins the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award, which is awarded during NFL Honors in February.
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