The Philadelphia Eagles came up dreadfully short against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Monday night. A horrible display in Raymond James Stadium put a disappointing cap on what was a frustrating season for the Birds, and now begins an offseason of questions.
One of the biggest questions the Eagles face is what the future holds for aging veterans. Brandon Graham, Fletcher Cox, and Jason Kelce are all free agents this offseason and entering the twilights of their careers.
Brandon Graham wants to stay with the Eagles
As for how many of this seemingly Hall of Fame-bound trio returns is unknown, but we at least know that Brandon Graham wants to come back in 2024.
The 14-year veteran told reporters that he wants to come back for one more year in Philadelphia. He was the first player ever drafted by Eagles GM Howie Roseman, and has been an Eagle ever since. There is certainly a high sentimental value attached to BG, who rose from ‘bust’ status to a Super Bowl champion and one of the most beloved Eagles of all-time.
BG had a near-$8M cap-hit in 2023, and that’s a number that Philadelphia simply cannot afford to pay to a player who will be 36-years-old by the time the next season begins. Graham was still an active contributor this season, but he ended the season with 3 sacks, and that money has to be better-spent elsewhere.
Would Graham take a pay-cut to stay with the Eagles? It’s likely. There’s a lot that can happen between now and the beginning of free agency, but it’s at least encouraging to know that Brandon Graham wants to be back for one last rodeo, even after such a gut-wrenching defeat.
AP Photo/Matt Slocum
