Last summer, Jimmy Graham signed a one-year contract to rejoin the Saints. That was amid rumors that, having missed the previous campaign, his career was finished, raising doubts about his ability to play in the future.
Graham shared a long statement on Friday on Instagram. The celebrated tight end used it to consider his experience in the NFL, especially his two different stints in New Orleans, even though it doesn’t go so far as to announce his retirement. Though he is a free agent, it is unclear if the 37-year-old Graham will play in 2024.
Part of Graham’s statement says, “To the city of New Orleans, there are no words to fully express my appreciation for your unwavering support.” “It was an honor to play for this city, one that went beyond football.” It was never simply about winning money or the sport. It was about belonging to a group of people who love football and found comfort, happiness, and camaraderie in the game.
The former third-round pick made a name for himself as one of the league’s best tight ends as soon as he joined in 2010. In his five years in New Orleans from 2010 to 2014, Graham was selected to three Pro Bowls and was named to the first team of the All-Pro team. In 2013, he was awarded the latter accolade as he finished the season with 1,215 yards and the most touchdown receptions (16) in the league.
After the Saints decided to trade Graham, he went on tour around the NFC. He played for the Seahawks for three seasons before spending two seasons with the Packers and Bears. For the most part of that time, the Miami product was a starter and a potent red zone danger; but, he missed the 2022 season because the Saints were interested in a reunion. After he made the decision to go back to his starting point and delay retirement by at least a year, he struck a low-cost contract in New Orleans.
Graham continued, “As I reflect, I am incredibly proud of everything we have accomplished together.” “The Saints organization and the city of New Orleans have given me more than I could have ever asked for.” I hope that in some small manner, I have been able to add to that legacy.
Graham says in the letter that he is “unsure of what the future holds,” but his remarks make it clear that he will make a retirement announcement at some time during the offseason. With the Saints the previous season, he was a small-time rotation player who caught just six passes, four of which were for touchdowns. If he and the organization could come to an agreement on another one-year deal, that probably would still be the case the following season.
Graham will finish his NFL career with a bunch of outstanding statistical totals, assuming he hangs up his cleats. Regarding receptions (719), yards (8,545), and touchdowns (89), he is ranked ninth among all-time tight ends. Graham’s career earnings to far have exceeded $82 million.
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