AnalyAn old friend of the New Orleans Saints, Jimmy Graham is back in town for a second stint with the team. The once-dominant tight end has made his triumphant return to the Saints to be a big-bodied target for Derek Carr in 2023.
This is Graham’s 13th season in the NFL and fifth stint with four different teams. Even though Graham was coming off a hiatus, what made the Saints and the veteran tight end agree to a reunion? Let’s take a closer look.
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What Made Jimmy Graham an Option for the Saints?
Simply put, despite a full room at the tight end position, the Saints felt like they did not have enough production in that room and were looking for upgrades to the position. While Graham may not be who he was in his prime years ago, he was given no assurances of his position on the team and had to go out there and prove he was worthy of a roster spot.
Clearly, Graham was able to demonstrate that and has found his way onto the roster and receive playing time 13 years later.
How Did Graham Play in 2022?
The former Saints great had not stepped on an NFL field since 2021. However, Graham decided to attempt a comeback in the place where it all began for him.
The former third-round selection of the 2010 NFL Draft was a fan favorite and put together his most productive seasons during his initial stop in New Orleans.
How Has Graham Played So Far in 2023?
So far, Graham’s impact on the field has been minimal. Through the first six games of the season, he’s appeared in every game, starting one. Yet, he’s only tallied one reception on two targets.
Nevertheless, in typical Jimmy Graham fashion, that one reception went for eight yards and a touchdown.
MORE: New Orleans Saints Depth Chart 2023
The season is still young — even if Graham isn’t anymore — and as the season grows, opportunities may arise for the veteran to make a bigger impact on a game and the season.
The fact that Graham is able to come off the couch, decide he would like to play football again, and do so at the highest level, is a testament to his talent and ability. He’s out to prove he still has some left in the tank to help the Saints in 2023.
