Brandon Graham Addition Could Be First of Many Moves for the Philadelphia Eagles Defense

The Philadelphia Eagles announced Tuesday morning that franchise legend Brandon Graham will be coming out of retirement to rejoin the team.

OUT OF RETIREMENT HE COMES! We’ve agreed to terms with DE Brandon Graham. Bring on Season 16 pic.twitter.com/x3zAiZF7He

— Philadelphia Eagles (@Eagles) October 21, 2025

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This is a significant addition to the Eagles’ defense, as they have been seeking help on the defensive line. This could be a sign of what’s to come, though, as the Eagles shouldn’t be done adding to their defense.

Brandon Graham is back

Graham will be a significant addition to the defense, as we saw him play at a high level in 2024. He was excellent against the run and the pass, and was debatably the best defensive end on the roster before his injury. Graham had three and a half sacks and six tackles for loss in 11 games last season. The Eagles currently have a depleted defensive end group, dealing with many injuries and a retirement. He is a much-needed reinforcement for the Eagles’ defense. Another underrated aspect, though, is the leadership he brings.

Graham has played the most games in Eagles history, 206 (regular season) across 15 seasons. He was a team captain every season before his retirement, and is one of the most respected players in Eagles history. His presence in the locker room will be vital for leadership and keeping the team focused and motivated. Graham indicated on his podcast, Brandon Graham Unblocked, that while a return is possible this week against the New York Giants, it is more likely he makes his season debut in Week 10 against the Green Bay Packers. This would give him time during the Eagles’ Week 9 bye to get completely up to speed and in shape.

More defensive moves coming

While Graham is expected to make an impact, the Eagles shouldn’t be done adding pieces. These Eagles are not satisfied with their current personnel, as evidenced by this move. The defensive line has not been able to generate a consistent pass rush this season. Howie Roseman should be looking to add another impact player through a trade to help the Eagles out in this regard.

Should Roseman be looking to continue upgrading along the defensive line, there will be options available. Some of the players that may interest the Eagles are Trey Hendrickson, Bradley Chubb, and Jermaine Johnson. While these are not the only players that could be of interest, they are currently on underperforming teams. Should these teams indicate they are willing to become sellers, you can expect Roseman to pick up the phone.

There is also the possibility that the Eagles look to add to their secondary. They have had an “uneven” season from rookie safety Andrew Mukuba, as Vic Fangio referenced in his press conference on Tuesday.

Vic Fangio on Andrew Mukuba’s season: “It’s uneven. The ability is there. He has to be more consistent.”

Vic agreed with the assessment that Mukuba has made some big plays and given up some big plays.

— Brandon Lee Gowton (@BrandonGowton) October 21, 2025

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Cornerbacks Adoree Jackson and Kelee Ringo have also left more to be desired. Jakorian Bennett is eligible to return from the IR this week, so that could be the addition the Eagles are looking for to stabilize their back end. If not, they could look externally to see if answers to their cornerback issues lie elsewhere.

The addition of Brandon Graham is a much welcomed reunion for the Philadelphia Eagles defense. This is merely a good start for the Eagles, though. Adding additional pieces should be a priority for the Eagles to get their defense back to playing at an elite level.

Main Photo Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images

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