For the first time, the Most Valuable Philadelphian is a beloved Super Bowl champion.
The Philadelphia Visitor Center Corporation honored Brandon Graham with its inaugural Most Valuable Philadelphian (MVP) Award during its Philly Opener event on Monday, May 20, 2024.
What makes the longtime Philadelphia Eagles defensive lineman the city's MVP? He has been "exemplifying the city’s values and impacting people’s lives on and off the field," the PVCC said.
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Graham has spent his entire 14 years in the NFL with the Eagles. Back in March he signed a one-year deal to return for a record 15th season with the Birds, saying he, his wife Carlyne and their children -- 8-year-old Emerson and 5-year-old Bryson -- have "built a life here."
"I am glad I haven't moved around much because of the kids," Graham told the Eagles website. "It has been good staying in Philadelphia."
That Philly stay has included being named to the Pro Bowl and being among the core of vets who led the Eagles to the team's only Super Bowl win.
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Graham on Monday said even as his football career comes to an end, his work in the community is just beginning.
"I think it is just a start," Graham said. "Yeah, this is my last year as a player, but I got so much more to offer this city and, you know, we only scratching the surface. Because when I'm done I expect to be here, still working for the team."
Graham hobnobbed with current Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro as well as former Philadelphia Mayor and Pennsylvania Gov. Ed Rendell.
Monday night's affair -- described as "a pep rally like no other" -- at the Independence Visitor Center in Old City also featured music from Philadelphia faves SNACKTIME and "a pep-rally atmosphere with festive food from the city’s best chefs and restaurants," the PVCC said.
Tickets to the event were on sale for $125 each.
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