When the Eagles host the Bills on Sunday, Brandon Graham will take his place atop the team's record book the second he steps on the field.
The Philly legend matched David Akers’ record for most games played in Eagles history Monday, playing his 188th game with the organization. Graham already has cemented himself as an Eagles icon, winning a Super Bowl with the organization while spending his entire career in Philadelphia.
Graham had flirted with retirement, but his decision to come back – and the Eagles remaining interested in re-signing him – enabled the 35-year-old to reach the milestone.
He expressed thanks Tuesday in his weekly appearance on the 94WIP Morning Show.
“Well, first I want to thank the guys that came before me,” Graham said. “Because I know those guys are great players and great personalities. I’ve met the majority of those guys and have nothing but respect for them. To be able to be in that talk of being No. 1 for the organization, man, as a defensive player too – and knowing coming in what happened with (Brian) Dawkins and how he ended up leaving this place to go to Denver – it was like one of those things that I’m just happy they stayed with me.
“It don’t happen often, but man, much respect to Howie (Roseman) and the guys that came before me. I’m so very grateful and I’m very appreciative. Man, I’m smiling. I didn’t see it coming, but I’m happy that it’s here.”
Graham isn’t the only Eagle in line to break Akers’ record this season. With seven games left, Jason Kelce (186 games) and Fletcher Cox (182) both could surpass the longtime Philly placekicker.