Jason Kelce may not be wearing an Eagles jersey anymore, but his voice still carries weight in Philadelphia. Just months into retirement, the All-Pro center is making headlines again after defending one of the city’s most beloved players, Brandon Graham.
Kelce shared his thoughts during his New Heights podcast, and what he said has fans buzzing. He believes Graham didn’t truly want to retire. “It felt like he got convinced that it was time to hang it up,”Kelce said. “If Brandon in his heart wants to come back, I think the Eagles should give him that opportunity because they need that.”
Graham officially retired in March after 15 seasons with the team. He finished as one of the longest-tenured Eagles ever, with two Super Bowl rings and a reputation for leadership that defined the locker room. His decision came shortly after a torn triceps ended his season, and at the time, it felt like the right moment. But Kelce’s comments suggest someone inside the organization might have influenced him to step away sooner than he wanted.
Kelce’s comments fuel new tension in Philadelphia
The timing of Kelce’s statement is striking. The Eagles have dropped two straight games, and their defense looks lost. Veteran pass rusher Za’Darius Smith retired suddenly last week, leaving another hole on the defensive front. When reporters asked defensive coordinator Vic Fangio about Graham possibly returning, he said, “Not to my knowledge.”
It felt like he got convinced that it was time to hang it up.
That short answer cooled rumors but didn’t end the debate. Fans have flooded social media, questioning whether the team made a mistake letting two emotional leaders walk away within months.
For Kelce, it’s about more than production. It’s about heart. The Eagles, once known for their grit and unity, now look like a team searching for its identity. And if Graham was truly “talked into” leaving, it could be one reason why that spirit feels missing.
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