Update: Eagles likely to move on from Brandon Graham

[BLUE 1,026]

Per Rotoworld.com:

CSN Philly's Geoff Mosher reports the Eagles have engaged in contract-extension talks with impending free agent OLB Brandon Graham.

After a couple offseasons of speculation about his future and fit in DC Billy Davis' 3-4, Graham has had a breakout 2014 with six sacks, grading out as Pro Football Focus' No. 5 outside linebacker. Starting OLB Trent Cole is expected to be released after the season. Graham could slide in opposite Connor Barwin, with 2014 first-round pick Marcus Smith as the No. 3 edge rusher. Graham will probably seek $5 million-plus annually. Dec 17 - 10:52 AM

Source: CSN Philly

 

[Zack_of_Steel+ 3,014]

Boooo, come to Pittsburgh were you belong.

[BLUE 1,026]

Per Rotoworld.com:

Impending free agent OLB Brandon Graham hinted he'd like to return to a 4-3 defense.

"A 4-3 end - pass rushing is what you do," Graham said. "I think a 4-3 end, it's better because you're always going that way. You're never backing up." It took Graham a bit to make the switch to 3-4 outside linebacker, but he's flourished there in 2014. Still, he feels more comfortable in a 4-3 scheme. According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, some compare Graham to Vikings DE Everson Griffen, who inked a five-year, $42.5 million deal with Minnesota last offseason. Dec 19 - 9:22 AM

Source: Philadelphia Inquirer & Daily News

[SteVo+ 3,702]

I'd like to see him stick around to essentially replace Cole, but if someone out there wants to break the bank for them, go ahead.

[BLUE 1,026]

Per Rotoworld.com:

Philly Mag's Sheil Kapadia expects the Eagles to move on from free agent OLB Brandon Graham.

Graham managed 5.5 sacks despite playing just 43 percent of snaps in a rotational role last year. He reportedly wants to play in a 4-3 scheme and should have an opportunity for a starting role on the open market. Rotoworld's No. 9 free-agent edge rusher, Graham will likely command $5 million-plus annually. Feb 11 - 5:17 PM

Source: Philly Mag: Birds 24/7

[BLUE 1,026]

Do want.

 

Per Rotoworld.com:

The Giants are reportedly interested in free agent DE Brandon Graham.

Best suited to a 4-3 defense, Graham would be an excellent fit in New York, rushing off the edge opposite Jason Pierre-Paul. He'd be a significant upgrade on outgoing Mathias Kiwanuka. Graham's market has been quiet for most of the weekend, which perhaps suggests he's going to come at a bargain price. Mar 8 - 5:35 PM

Source: Jordan Raanan on Twitter

The Titans have "inquired about" free agent DE Brandon Graham.

The fit is questionable. The Eagles couldn't find regular snaps for Graham in their 3-4 scheme, and the Titans are running a 3-4 under Dick LeBeau and Ray Horton. The Giants are currently the tentative favorites for Graham. Mar 9 - 12:08 AM

Source: Paul Kuharsky on Twitter

Edited March 9, 2015 by BLUE

[Dutch 874]

Brandon Graham- As high as I am on Brandon Graham, he's out of scheme in the 3-4 and is much more suited for a 4-3. So I would expect for the Eagles to try and trade him. I think we can get a 4th or maybe a 5th for him. I wouldn't want anything lower than a 5th though. Graham would be a nice addition to a team like the Bengals or Bears. He would probably be a great fit with the Giants but I'd hate to see him there. Same with the Cowboys.

 

My fear is coming true... I have a feeling Graham is going to kill us if he goes to the Giants. Graham and JPP... They are trying to be 2011 all over again..

[Bangy 19]

If that happens and the Giants can also get a good DT to partner Harkins that line could be a force again.

[SteVo+ 3,702]

Eagles agreed to terms with OLB Brandon Graham on a four-year, $26 million contract.

The deal reportedly includes $14 million guaranteed. Graham's return to Philly comes as a mild upset, as the local media had been skeptical he'd be back, while coach Chip Kelly has often struggled to find snaps for his talented pass rusher. It's a welcome move for the Eagles' pass rush, however, while Kelly must be confident he can find Graham more than the 524 snaps he played last season. He'll start opposite Connor Barwin. Still only 26 (next month), Graham is coming off a 5.5 sack campaign.

 

[seanbrock 1,684]

Great sign by the Eagles imo. If he can keep that production with starters snaps we'll be in good shape.

[Dutch 874]

Now that's one hole we have filled up. Now RB, WR, #2 CB (unless they give it to Nolan Carroll or Boykin) and safety. Maybe QB too . But I'm glad the Eagles were able to strike a deal with Graham. he has been extremely effective for us in limited snaps. He's had a lot of drama and pressure to deal with since he's been drafted in Philly. So I really appreciate him sticking with us through which should be the rest of the prime of his career. I'm also glad that he has been able to fight through the adversity and be a productive player. Now the next task is to go from a productive part time player to a productive full time player. Graham has my full respect and support and I hope keeps it up.

 

This pretty much solidifies Marcus Smith's role now. Still going to be riding the bench but will most likely take Grahams role from last year being a part time player which means he's still going to see the field a lot more than he did last year lol. Not sure if I see Marcus Smith being a pure pass rusher but I can definitely see him developing into a role like a Connor Barwin being a versatile player. I hope Marcus makes some big strides in progression this year.