Brandon Graham, a key figure in both Philadelphia Eagles Super Bowl victories, recently expressed confidence that the current Eagles squad will avoid the common post-Super Bowl slump. Speaking during the Exciting Mics podcast, Graham emphasized that unlike after their 2017 title run, the present team has retained much of its core, which should help sustain success in the coming season.
Strong Roster Continuity Sets Eagles Apart
After winning their first Super Bowl following the 2017 season, the Eagles struggled in subsequent years, posting two consecutive 9-7 records before dropping to a disappointing four-win season that led to the firing of coach Doug Pederson. In contrast, this year’s team brings back a deep group of proven players on both sides of the ball. Offensive leaders such as quarterback Jalen Hurts, running back Saquon Barkley, wide receiver A.J. Brown, as well as tackles Lane Johnson and Jordan Mailata are all returning. On defense, the Eagles are anchored by lineman Jalen Carter and linebacker Zack Baun, alongside a promising young secondary that includes Cooper DeJean, Quinyon Mitchell, and Reed Blankenship.
Veteran Insight Highlights Team’s Defensive and Offensive Depth
Reflecting on the roster changes, Graham noted the loss of some defensive linemen such as Milton Williams but expressed belief in the emerging talent ready to step up. He underscored the strength of the defensive secondary and linebackers, alongside the stability of the offense with no key players lost on the offensive line.
“We lost a lot of defensive guys, like Milton [Williams], them guys on the D-line, but I still feel like there’s a lot of guys under them that’s ready to make their name too,”
Graham said.
“But the back end, how y’all boys playing, and then linebackers. I mean, man, offense, everybody’s still back. Nobody lost on the O-line. I feel like it’s going to be a good one.”
Coach’s Message Urges Humility and Hard Work
Graham also shared advice delivered by Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni during a June team meeting, urging players to remain grounded despite praise. Sirianni counseled the team to
“treat praise like perfume. Sniff it, don’t drink it — it’s poison.”
Graham agreed, highlighting the necessity for consistent daily effort. He stressed that the team’s work ethic in practice is critical to success on game day, warning that a lack of intensity during preparation could signal trouble ahead.
Outlook: Maintaining Momentum for Sustained Success
With a solid base of returning veterans and emerging talent, the Eagles appear positioned to avoid the fate of many previous champions who struggled after their title runs. Graham’s perspective as a recently retired player who witnessed firsthand the highs and lows of championship seasons adds weight to this outlook. The team’s focus on humility, effort, and experience offers hope that the Eagles can build on their recent accomplishments rather than succumb to a Super Bowl hangover.