Watch CBS News

Graham: 'Mostly Worried About Making Team When Chip Was Here'

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Brandon Graham is back in his comfort zone.

The Eagles' defensive end spent the last three seasons trying to get comfortable in team's 3-4 system implemented by Chip Kelly and run by Billy Davis. And while Kelly was the one who signed Graham to a four-year, $26 million ($13 million guaranteed) extension last offseason, Graham says he's much more comfortable playing for new defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz, in his aggressive 4-3 system.

Related: 6 Things From The Eagles' Preseason Win Over The Steelers

"I think I was mostly worried [about making the team] when Chip was here," Graham told Angelo Cataldi and the 94WIP Morning Show on Friday, the morning after the Eagles' 17-0 preseason win over the Steelers.

Listen: Brandon Graham on the 94WIP Morning Show

 

"Now, I mean, I think just because this defense is for me and I've shown -- it was really nothing that I had to adjust to other than just the terminology. But I knew exactly what Schwartz wanted, as far as the way he wanted his [defensive] ends to attack. So that kind of gave me an advantage.

"But I don't think I was more worried with him [Schwartz]. I think I was more worried with Chip."

Graham, the team's 13th overall pick in 2010, is coming off his best NFL season where he recorded six and a half sacks and three forced fumbles. Now, entering his seventh NFL season as a veteran in a system he knows well, the 28-year-old defensive end is able to take on more of a leadership type role.

"So I was helping a lot of guys and it's just all about being a team player and that's what my focus is this year," Graham said. "I really wanted to switch it up and really be more team player, so that we can go do something and win this thing man."

In 2012, as a 4-3 end under Andy Reid, Pro Football Focus ranked Graham as the most productive pass rusher in the NFL. Graham is fired up to be back in his natural system.

"I know what I'm doing. I mean I knew what I was doing last year, but it was just different," Graham said. "It's just a new energy, a new excitement for me back in the 4-3. The last time I was in it, I excelled in it right before Coach Reid got fired. I really have been happy. I've just been excited."

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.