Eagles DC Vic Fangio Reacts to Brandon Graham Unretiring: ‘I Told Him Not to Retire Last Year!’

PHILADELPHIA — The Philadelphia Eagles got a surprise boost this week when franchise legend Brandon Graham officially came out of retirement to rejoin the team for what will be a record-breaking 16th NFL season in midnight green.

For Eagles fans, it’s a reunion that feels like destiny. For defensive coordinator Vic Fangio, it’s something he saw coming all along.

“I told him not to retire last year,” Fangio said with a grin on Tuesday. “I knew he still had it in him.”

And judging by the excitement inside the NovaCare Complex, nobody seems happier to have No. 55 back than Fangio himself.

The Comeback That Shook Philly

News broke Tuesday afternoon that Brandon Graham had agreed to terms with the Eagles, ending his short-lived retirement just months after announcing it in the offseason. The 36-year-old defensive end, one of the most beloved players in franchise history, will now return for what will be his record 16th season with the team — the most by any player in Eagles history.

The timing couldn’t be better. The Eagles’ defensive front has been dealing with injuries and rotation depth issues, particularly along the edge. Bringing back a veteran leader who knows the system and the culture is a massive morale and strategic win.

“Brandon’s presence changes everything,” Fangio said. “He’s got experience, leadership, and a fire that’s contagious. You can’t coach that.”

Graham, who tallied 3.5 sacks in 11 games last season, left the game healthy but decided to hang up his cleats after the team’s playoff run. But as Fangio revealed, there were already playful hints that the veteran might not stay away for long.

“I teased him after the season,” Fangio said, chuckling. “Told him, ‘You sure you’re done? You don’t look done to me.’ Turns out I was right.”

Why Graham’s Return Matters

The return of Brandon Graham isn’t just sentimental — it’s strategic.

The Eagles’ defensive line, once the heart of their Super Bowl–caliber identity, has been tested early this season. With several younger players still developing and a few veterans managing injuries, Fangio needed someone who could provide stability, mentorship, and production.

“We’ve had some guys banged up,” Fangio admitted. “To have someone like Brandon — who understands our schemes, who’s been in every kind of situation — it’s invaluable.”

Even after 15 seasons, Graham has shown he can still perform at a high level. His burst off the line, relentless motor, and ability to pressure the quarterback make him a valuable rotational asset.

But it’s his leadership — not just his numbers — that Fangio says will have the biggest impact.

“He’s the heartbeat of that locker room,” Fangio said. “You see how the young guys light up when he walks in. He brings that energy every single day.”

A Legacy Like No Other

Brandon Graham’s career is already etched in Philadelphia sports lore. Drafted 13th overall in the 2010 NFL Draft, he has spent his entire career with the Eagles — a rarity in modern football.

His defining moment came during Super Bowl LII, when he strip-sacked Tom Brady in the final minutes, sealing the franchise’s first-ever Super Bowl title.

Since then, Graham has become a symbol of consistency, resilience, and loyalty. Despite injuries — including a devastating Achilles tear in 2021 — he’s always bounced back.

“That’s who Brandon is,” Fangio said. “He doesn’t quit. He never has. Even when he’s supposed to be retired, he finds his way back.”

Fangio’s Vision for No. 55

While Graham’s exact role has yet to be defined, Fangio hinted that the veteran will be worked back into the rotation gradually.

“He’s in great shape,” Fangio said. “But there’s a difference between conditioning shape and football shape — contact shape. We’ll see how quickly he adjusts.”

That said, Fangio doesn’t expect it to take long. Graham has always been known for his professionalism and preparation, and reports indicate he stayed active and fit during his brief time away from football.

“He’s the kind of guy who could walk off the street and still make an impact,” Fangio added. “He’s that disciplined.”

With young pass rushers like Jalen Carter, Josh Sweat, and Nolan Smith learning from one of the best to ever wear the Eagles jersey, Fangio sees Graham’s presence as a win on multiple fronts.

“It’s not just about sacks,” Fangio explained. “It’s about mindset. The way he practices, the way he studies film — it sets a standard.”

The Locker Room Reacts

Inside the Eagles’ facility, Graham’s unretirement sparked celebration. Teammates flooded social media with excitement, welcoming their captain back home.

Quarterback Jalen Hurts tweeted simply: “Let’s go BG!!! Philly forever.”

Linebacker Haason Reddick added: “Couldn’t ask for a better vet to learn from. Let’s run it back, legend.”

And even longtime rival players chimed in. Former Giant Landon Collins posted, “Respect to Brandon Graham — 16 seasons is no joke. Philly’s lucky to have him back.”

It’s clear that Graham’s reputation transcends team lines. Around the league, he’s known not only for his on-field production but also for his positivity and professionalism.

A Reunion Rooted in Brotherhood

For Fangio, Graham’s comeback is more than a roster move — it’s a reunion of kindred spirits.

The defensive coordinator, now in his first year with the Eagles, has built a reputation on discipline and toughness. And in Graham, he sees a player who embodies both.

“Brandon plays the game the right way,” Fangio said. “He’s accountable, physical, and selfless. He’s exactly the kind of guy you want leading a defense.”

The two share mutual respect. Graham, during his brief media appearance Tuesday, said Fangio’s confidence in him was a big reason for his decision to return.

“Coach Fangio kept it real with me,” Graham said. “He told me, ‘If you’ve still got gas left in the tank, don’t let it go to waste.’ That stuck with me.”

Looking Ahead

The Eagles are preparing for a crucial divisional matchup against the New York Giants, and while Graham may not be ready to play immediately, Fangio hinted that his return to the field could come “sooner than people think.”

For now, Graham will focus on conditioning and reacclimating to the rhythm of game preparation. But even without playing a snap, his impact is already being felt.

“He’s already in the locker room talking to guys, cracking jokes, keeping everyone loose,” Fangio said. “That’s the Brandon Graham effect.”

Final Word

In a sport that often moves too fast for loyalty and legacy, Brandon Graham’s story stands out. Sixteen seasons. One team. Endless heart.

And now, thanks to a little persuasion from his defensive coordinator, the Eagles’ all-time leader in passion and perseverance is back for one more run.

“He’s not just unretiring,” Fangio said. “He’s reminding us what it means to love the game.”