Brandon Graham Stays In Boxing Ring to Prepare for Opener
Eagles Defensive End Brandon Graham was a big part of the team that won their first Super Bowl this past February. Since that time he’s taken to other activities to keep him in shape, namely boxing.
In a recent interview, Graham, who had ankle surgery during the offseason, said he had been in boxing rings practicing some sparring to keep him busy and fit while he underwent rehab. He stated that boxing was good for his body because he was able to use his hands a lot, and emphasized that he always focuses on using his hands during the offseason because the position he plays requires that very often.
During the 2017 NFL season, Graham posted 9.5 sacks on the year, a career high for him and has officially returned to practice. In the weeks prior, he was placed on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list, and defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz mentioned that he would only have limited practice participation for a while until he healed some more. Schwartz added that Graham would need to take more steps into getting back in shape and even though he won’t participate in heavy practice much, having him back on its own is a good feeling.
With limited practice in mind, Graham won’t play in the team’s upcoming game against the Browns this week and more than likely will sit out in the preseason finale against the Jets. Graham instead will be looking to return in the Eagles’ official season opener on Thursday night against the Falcons. Graham himself even acknowledged that he was expecting to be ready for opening day and said there was no certainty but he was working hard every day.
Graham is notable for missing only one game in his career since the start of the 2012 season, and that just happened to be the season finale against the Cowvboys last season. He’s also noted for being the one to notch a strip-sack against Tom Brady in the Super Bowl in February, a play that guaranteed the Eagles their first Super Bowl win.
