Brandon Graham’s comeback timeline shifts a tad as 2025 debut is pushed back.

We have successfully transitioned from the official announcement of one of the worst-kept secrets of recent memory. The Philadelphia Eagles actually did it. To no one’s surprise, Brandon Graham returned for his 16th NFL season. He’ll play on a one-year deal.

The eye candy came at practice. Dang, it’s nice to see the Number 55 jersey back on the field and running around again. It wasn’t long before he was engaging in some trash talk and pushing his teammates to dig a little deeper.

Brandon Graham will sit out the Eagles‘ Week 8 vs. the New York Giants.

Now, it would be unfair to state that the Eagles have entirely lacked leadership. Some of the vets have stepped up to fill the void left by Graham’s departure.

Nolan Smith felt like the next man up, but he’s out for some time. Nakobe Dean and Reed Blankenship have also demonstrated leadership. They’ve proven to be mature and wise beyond their years.

Sure, this is Jalen Hurts’ team now, but it’s nice to be aided by one of the O.G.s. The smile… The engine that never shuts off… There isn’t a Bird on the roster who wouldn’t benefit from Graham’s presence.

During this week’s media sit-down, defensive coordinator Vic Fangio answered the burning question. When might the legend make his debut in a game that counts?

Coach Fangio gave us no real indication of when Number 55 would play in his first game. Friday’s injury report offered some better and more concrete details. We have learned that the two-time Super Bowl winner’s debut won’t be coming on Sunday. He and all-world wide receiver A.J. Brown are two of the six players the Eagles ruled out.

So, with that, we wait, and we do so with hurt feelings. The truth is, the decision to bring Brandon Graham back spotlights issues with the Eagles’ pass rush, but each day that passes brings cause to smile.

No one questions whether he still has something left. Few feel like this is a mistake. Despite the delay, we can’t wait to see him in action. With that, we pencil him in for Week 10 vs. the Green Bay Packers after the bye week. Trust us on this. All hands will be needed on deck to secure a road win in that one.