Report: Jimmy Graham Not Expected To Appeal Franchise Tag Ruling

 

Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk, citing a source with knowledge of the situation, reports that Saints TE Jimmy Graham is not expected to file an appeal of his franchise before 4:00 p.m. ET on Monday.

Graham’s grievance hearing regarding whether or not he should be considered a receiver based on where he lined up in recent years was ruled in favor of the Saints, which means Graham will make $7.035 million as opposed to $12 million had he won his case.

It was assumed that Graham would appeal the ruling, but that doesn’t appear to be the case as we’re just 30 minutes away from the deadline.

New Orleans faces another deadline on Tuesday, as they will no longer be able to negotiate a long-term contract until next offseason.

Recent reports mentioned that the Saints are still willing to make Graham the highest-paid tight end in NFL history with an annual salary of $9.5 million, but there hasn’t been any reported progress since then.

Graham managed to put together a very good season, despite the fact that he was hampered by a foot injury for a good portion of the year.  He totaled 86 receptions for 1,215 yards receiving and 16 touchdowns and was rated by Pro Football Focus as the No. 1 tight end in the league.