Sometimes, you must look past the stat sheet. Sometimes, value can't be encompassed by looking at numbers. Brandon Graham, before his injury, didn't lead the Philadelphia Eagles in snaps, tackles or sacks, but he led them somewhere else. He led them in the holy grail of every NFL franchise, in the team's locker room.
Some of you know this. Some may not, but often, when NFL franchises travel for road games, they leave the wounded behind. B.G.'s a special case though, right? Seriously, how do you leave one of the vocal leaders?
Nick Sirianni talked about Brandon Graham during a presser earlier this week. As you might expect, he was expressive about his admiration.
Give Brandon Graham a Week 13 Eagles vs. Ravens game ball.
Nick Sirianni had a lot to say about the author of the greatest strip-sack in Super Bowl history after his season-ending injury. But, on the subject of injured players traveling, he admitted "Everybody's a little bit different."
When asked if B.G. would travel with the team on during road games despite being on the injured reserve, he had this to say.
"Haven't got to that point yet. I sure as heck hope so. We need him. I need him. The team needs him."
Here's more:
"Brandon Graham affects the team way more than just on the field because (guys know him)... Because of the captain he is, because of the teammate he is."
Perhaps this is the best part...
"His enthusiasm and love for football and love for his teammates are infectious, so even if they say he might not be able to go on the sideline, I will be lobbying with everything I have to make sure that he can. And, I'll do my best to protect him on the sideline if the ball gets anywhere close to him."
Guess what happened... B.G. flew with the Eagles to Baltimore.
Graham did as he promised. He provided leadership. He helped his teammates prepare. He's deserving of a game ball, and he didn't have to play a single snap to earn one.
Defensive end Charles Harris (#95) is set to play in his first game for the Eagles after they claimed him off waivers. Harris was previously with the Carolina Panthers. pic.twitter.com/scvICxiYkC
— Chris Franklin (@cfranklinnews) December 1, 2024
Brandon Graham vowed to be around the #Eagles as an inspirational force the rest of the way. Spoke to the defensive line last night. Breaking the defense down now. pic.twitter.com/Wj4XA6auOK
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) December 1, 2024
Brandon Graham is here and with his teammates in Baltimore pic.twitter.com/BUBwptQc04
— John Clark (@JClarkNBCS) December 1, 2024
He may have taken his final snap of the season (and maybe of his career). But, Coach Sirianni is right. They need this guy. We're glad he's on our side.