Philly Leader

Brandon Graham, the defensive end for the Philadelphia Eagles, reminisces about his experiences over 15 years of Training Camps. Reflecting on his first camp in 2010, he recalls traveling to Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, where players stayed in dorms and practiced in a valley filled with enthusiastic fans.

"Exhausting. Every day," Graham described the rigorous two-a-day practices under Coach Andy Reid. "I remember being so tired after the morning practice that I would take a shower and have somebody grab me some lunch and bring it to me near our locker rooms and then I would sleep the rest of the time until the next practice."

During his initial camp, Graham roomed with defensive tackle Mike Patterson and linebacker Ricky Sapp. He worked hard to prove himself against seasoned players like Winston Justice and Jason Peters. "We had some battles and I think I showed that I could play here and help the Eagles," he said.

Graham also recalled lighter moments from his rookie year when veterans made him sing Marvin Gaye's "What's Going On?" "I was good, too," he said with a laugh.

Since 2010, both Graham’s life and the NFL have seen significant changes. The league has expanded its regular season from 16 to 17 games, introduced new rules, implemented international games, among other adjustments. For Graham personally, he married, had children, and now enjoys more modern training facilities at NovaCare Complex since 2013.

The current training routine is less grueling compared to earlier years. There are no longer two-a-day practices with heavy contact; instead, teams focus on preserving players for the regular season through a mix of practices and walkthroughs.

Despite these changes, fan enthusiasm remains strong—a sentiment echoed by Graham. "You're going against the same guys every day...but you know the fans are watching...so you have some extra energy to win every rep," he noted.

Graham also expressed appreciation for joint practices with other teams. "Seeing some new guys...you don't really know what to expect...I love talking and playing...and getting after it."

As he enters what he says will be his final season in 2024, Graham reflects on how Training Camp has always been a critical part of his preparation. "My approach has always been that I'm getting ready to be at my best in my job," he stated.

Training Camp remains a challenging environment where only those prepared for its intensity can thrive. “It is a test,” said Graham succinctly.

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