Brandon Graham already has left a profound impact on the Eagles organization, and he’s hoping to continue building on that in the twilight of his career.
Philly’s veteran defensive end is nearing the end of his run, with retirement on the table this past offseason. He returned for the 2023 campaign though, and thus far has been thriving in a role that, despite featuring less playing time, has enabled him the opportunity to leave a mark on the Eagles’ young stars.
The Eagles have loaded up on their defensive front. Graham and Fletcher Cox remain the veterans, but around them are youngsters like Jalen Carter and Jordan Davis. On Sunday, Davis raved about the impact Graham, who he referred to as “unc,” has had on him, saying he’s always been there when he needs him.
Graham responded to those comments Tuesday in his weekly appearance on the 94WIP Morning Show.
“I embrace being unc because I’m going to miss it when it’s over,” Graham said. “But at the end of the day I want to leave a mark on these young boys so they can carry the torch so that we can keep it going. Because man, it’s about your attitude. It’s about the everyday work that you have to put in. Yes, you’re going to go through stuff, yes you’re going to have your ups and downs with it. But it’s about just trying to do the hard, right thing rather than the easy, wrong thing to do, which is complaining. It ain’t going to do nothing.
“That’s what I try to tell these boys, both Jordan and Jalen, y’all both should be commanding big money. So, one of you is going to have to stay, one of you is going to have to go, but at least y'all are getting right for your family or whatever your motivation is for why you play. But man, I know that them boys are going to be hungry and they’re going to do right as they keep going too.”