Former Michigan Wolverines footballdefensive end Brandon Graham — a 35-year-old in his 14th NFL season — has had a quiet year so far, coming off the bench for a loaded Philadelphia Eagles defensive line. He had his breakthrough game this past weekend in a crucial 28-23 victory over division rival Dallas, keeping the Eagles out ahead in the NFC with an 8-1 record, 1.5 games ahead of second-place Detroit (6-2).
Graham had only a half-sack through eight games coming into Sunday, but he put up 1.5 in the victory over the Cowboys. After the game, Graham was all smiles, wearing a hat with the Cowboys logo crossed out at his locker.
“Who, his old ass? Oh he’s an old man,” said teammate and fellow defensive lineman Fletcher Cox with a chuckle. “We love him. He brings so much energy to this team. When he’s in the game, people feel him. He’s in the game to dominate.”
The captain has provided his leadership as well as some production off the bench, playing 18.2 defensive snaps per contest.
“He’s such an important part of this football team,” Eagles head man Nick Sirianni said. “The player, the person, the leader, the captain. When he makes a play like he did today, I promise you everybody feeds off of that and everybody feels that because our guys are so excited when he makes a play.”
Here’s a look at how every former Michigan player in the NFL performed in Week 9:
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Had a bye over the weekend … Made 3 catches for 31 yards and a touchdown while appearing in all eight contests for the 5-3 49ers.
Ben Bredeson (2016-19), G, New York Giants
Started at right guard and posted a dismal 48.6 overall PFF grade with 6 pressures allowed in a 30-6 loss to the Las Vegas Raiders … Opened eight of nine games for the 2-7 Giants.
Devin Bush (2016-18), LB, Seattle Seahawks
Inactive for the third game in four weeks … Totaled 4 tackles in four contests for the 5-3 Seahawks.
Zach Charbonnet (2019-20), RB Seattle Seahawks
Rushed 4 times for 8 yards and caught 1 pass for 5 yards in a 37-3 loss to the Baltimore Ravens … Rushed for 170 yards on 32 carries and reeled in 9 receptions for 52 yards this season.
