Jimmy Graham’s Seattle Seahawks tenure has come to an end, it appears.
The Pro Bowl tight end and the Seahawks are expected to “part ways” once Graham becomes a free agent March 14, NFL Media’s Tom Pelissero reported Monday, citing sources.
Graham wasn’t quite able to match the production he enjoyed with the New Orleans Saints during his three-year tenure in Seattle, but his stock still remains high. The 31-year-old led all NFL tight ends with 10 touchdown receptions in 2017 and has earned Pro Bowl nods in each of the past two seasons.
So, where could Graham end up? Pelissero notes the veteran will draw interest from “several teams,” including the Saints, who could be interested in reuniting with Graham after he spent five years with the club.
The New England Patriots may be a possibility for Graham, as well. Head coach Bill Belichick long has coveted dynamic tight end duos, and pairing Graham with Rob Gronkowski would give the Patriots incredible talent at the position. There’s also the issue of Gronkowski’s future; if he really does decide to retire this offseason, New England could pursue Graham as his replacement.
Of course, Graham likely will command a hefty salary (despite his advanced age), so the Patriots might decide he’s not worth the steep price tag. In any event, though, Graham’s availability should spice up the free-agent market once teams open for business next Wednesday.