Back from the Bye: Q&A with Brandon Graham and Jihaad Campbell

We are so back, and so is the Eagles legend Brandon Graham. I caught up the two-time Super Bowl winning veteran who has recently returned from retirement at Pickle with a Purpose, a pickleball benefit for the Eagles Autism Foundation.

I spoke with Graham alongside Eagles rookie Jihaad Campbell, tucked in a corner away from the noise, to talk about what it means to give back, the feeling of returning home to the team that raised you, and the next chapter for the Eagles family.

Question: Brandon, you’ve spent over a decade in Philadelphia, you’ve been through championships, heartbreaks, injuries, and even a brief retirement. What does it feel like to be putting that jersey back on again?
Brandon Graham: Man, it felt good, real good. I thought I was done for a second, you know? I was ready to hang it up, spend more time with the family, and watch my kids grow. But every time I’d pass that locker room or see the guys out there grinding, it pulled me right back. I still had that fire. I still wanted to give something to the game. Not just on the field, but in how I show up for my teammates and this city.” Philly’s been my home from the start. In this city, it doesn’t let you take the easy way out. It pushes you to be your best, even when you think you’re done. So, when the opportunity came to come back, I couldn’t say no. It wasn’t about chasing another ring. It was about finishing strong, the right way.

Question: And what’s it like sharing moments like this? Community events, meeting fans, after all these years in the league?
Graham: That’s the best part. When you play long enough, you realize football’s just a small part of what you do. It’s what people see on Sundays, but it’s not what really matters. What matters is what you leave behind. The way you make people feel, the kids who see you and believe they can do something big too. That’s why I love coming out to events like this. You meet people who care, you see families who are just trying to do good things together. That’s what it’s about.

While Brandon spoke with the ease of someone who’s found peace in his purpose, Jihaad Campbell, the 22-year-old linebacker fresh off his first big season, listened closely, nodding with respect. You could sense that mix of awe and ambition that young players often feel standing next to someone who’s carved out the kind of legacy they dream of building.

Question: Jihaad, this is your first season as part of the Eagles organization, and already, you’re making an impact on and off the field. How does it feel to step into a locker room with veterans like Brandon?
Jihaad Campbell: It’s surreal, man. You grow up watching guys like BG, seeing the way he plays, the way he carries himself and then suddenly you’re right there next to him. I remember walking into the locker room the first time and just thinking, ‘Alright, I’m really here.’ But from day one, he made me feel like I belonged.

Question: What’s the biggest thing you’ve learned from him so far?
Campbell: It’s how consistent he is. Like, people talk about his energy, his leadership and that’s real but what really stands out is how he treats every single person with respect. Whether it’s the rookies, the staff, or fans, he’s the same guy every day. That’s something I want to carry with me throughout my career.

Question: Brandon, you’ve been one of the most active players in the community for years; what keeps you showing up, even with everything you’ve already accomplished?
Graham: Because somebody did it for me. When I was young, I didn’t have a lot, but I had people who showed up. Coaches, mentors, even guys who came from my neighborhood and made it, they’d come back and talk to us, show us it was possible. So now it’s on me to do the same. Whether it’s autism awareness, youth programs, or local stuff like this, I want people to know I’m still here. I’m not just a face on a poster. I’m part of this city.

Question: Jihaad, what about you? How are you hoping to give back or find your own way in the community?
Campbell: Honestly, I’m still figuring that out. But I know I want to focus on kids. Especially those who don’t always get the same chances. I come from a small town, so I know what it’s like to not have all the resources. Seeing BG do what he does, it makes me realize it’s not about waiting until you’re older or more established. You can start now. Even just showing up can make a difference.

Before wrapping up, I asked Brandon what he hopes his return means for the team and for the fans who’ve watched him grow from a young draft pick to one of the city’s most beloved players.
Graham: I just want to be that example. I want these young guys to see that no matter what happens; injuries, setbacks, even doubt, you keep showing up. You keep loving the game, loving your people, and giving your best. If I can leave that behind, then I’ve done my job.