The Brandon Graham era has reached its official conclusion with the Philadelphia Eagles.
The veteran defensive lineman announced his retirement in March, but the team waited before making the paperwork official.
While Graham continues rehabilitating an arm injury with the same relentless work ethic that defined his playing days, the Eagles made a roster move that likely marks the end of his career.
“Eagles placed Brandon Graham on reserve-retired list,” Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston wrote on X.
#Eagles placed Brandon Graham on reserve-retired list
— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) June 2, 2025
Philadelphia strategically delayed Graham’s official retirement for salary cap purposes.
When players retire under contract, teams handle the situation like a standard release.
By waiting until after June 1, the Eagles can split Graham’s salary cap charge between 2025 and 2026 rather than absorbing the entire amount this season.
The move represents one of several post-June 1 transactions Philadelphia is utilizing to either strengthen the 2025 roster or preserve flexibility for future seasons.
Graham’s retirement also freed up a valuable spot on the team’s 90-man roster.
The Eagles moved quickly to fill the opening, signing undrafted rookie Marcus Tate.
Another roster spot will become available once a trade of Bryce Huff to the San Francisco 49ers becomes official.
While Graham’s on-field contributions have been thoroughly documented, his impact deserves recognition.
The two-time Super Bowl champion ranks among the most beloved players in franchise history.
His combination of production, leadership and community involvement solidified his status as arguably the greatest Eagles player of all time.
