This is, Brandon Graham knows deep in his heart of hearts, the right time. The perfect time. A 15-year Eagles career ended in storybook fashion for Graham, who on Tuesday announced his retirement from the NFL in a press conference at the NovaCare Complex.

"I could not be happier with the way my career played out, the love I've gotten, and the success the Eagles have had as an organization," Graham said prior to his official announcement. "For real, it has been a dream come true."

A first-round draft pick in 2010, Graham ended his career on the field in the Eagles' 40-22 win over Kansas City in Super LIX. He played the game wearing a brace on a left triceps that had ruptured and required surgery in late November, a perfect metaphor for Graham's career: He overcame obstacles with hard work, incredible energy and commitment, and an A-plus positive attitude and then went out on the field and play hard, physical, and productive football.

"Walking into the NovaCare Complex every day, man, I love it and I'm still gonna be there," Graham said. "It's home away from home for me."

Graham's Eagles' career is one to behold. His 15 seasons played are tied for the most in franchise history, and no one can top his 206 regular-season games played (plus 20 playoff contests). A second-team All-Pro in 2016 and a Pro Bowl selection in 2020, Graham registered 76.5 quarterback sacks in the regular season (plus 5.5 more in the postseason) to rank third in franchise history.

Graham played in three Super Bowls, winning Super Bowl LII and LIX. In the win over New England in Super Bowl LII, Graham registered a late-game strip-sack of Patriots quarterback Tom Brady, an iconic play in Eagles history that helped Philadelphia bring home its first Lombardi Trophy.

That play is something fans have asked Graham about "a million times," he said, and it is something he will never forget.

"It felt great and I know what it meant for the team," Graham said. "That's what you want -- to step up and make that big play at that moment."

Graham is also one of the most popular players in franchise history and his investment in the community was recognized as Graham in 2022 and in 2024 was nominated by the Eagles for the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award.

"Without question, Brandon Graham is the embodiment of everything you would want in a Philadelphia Eagle. He's a special player and a special person. It's only fitting that he has played in more games than anyone else in the history of our franchise," Chairman and CEO Jeffrey Lurie said.

"Over the course of his 15-year career, he produced so many memorable moments, both on and off the field. His 76.5 sacks are the third-highest total ever by an Eagle and, of course, he will forever be remembered for his game-changing play in Super Bowl 52, but it was the way he played the game and the way he carried himself that earned him the love and respect of his coaches, teammates, and fans. The positive energy he brought every day was infectious, whether it was a practice, a game, or just walking around the building. Anyone who has had the pleasure of interacting with him would tell you that it's impossible to have a bad day after being in his presence. Make no mistake, he was also a tough, physical, and talented player who has played an integral role in the success we've had over the years.

"In addition to being one of our all-time greats on the field, Brandon has always represented this organization and the City of Philadelphia with exemplary leadership, integrity, and class. Along with his trademark smile and warm demeanor, he treats everyone with respect and has been incredibly giving of himself to others, which is among the many reasons why he was a two-time Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award nominee. Of all the things that make him special though, it is Brandon's character and gracious nature that have always stood out to me the most. We could not be prouder of the player, person, and family man that Brandon has become.

"Although Brandon is officially retiring as a player, we know that his impact on our team will continue to be felt for many years to come, whether it is through the culture he helped build or his future endeavors. On behalf of the Philadelphia Eagles, we congratulate Brandon on an incredible career and wish him and his family all the best in retirement."

He had a Hall of Fame career for the Eagles on the field and off the field, and he had the kind of ending – a second Super Bowl victory – that everyone dreams about.

"It meant everything to get back (from the triceps injury) and play in that game," Graham said. "I'm so happy, man. Two Super Bowls. Going out like that, that's what I was working for and it's just right that it ends that way. But I ain't going anywhere! I'm still gonna be around, so get used to it!"