ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports that the arbitrator in the Jimmy Graham grievance hearing, Stephen Burbank, expects to have a ruling on July 3.
- Burbank specifically mentioned “no sooner, no later” in regards to the July 3 date.
- Albert Breer mentioned that this amount of time will give Graham’s agent, Jimmy Sexton, 12 days to try and get a long-term deal in place.
The difference between the receiver ($12.3 million) and the tight end ($7.035 million) designation is considerable, with Graham having a lot to gain in this situation both now, and in future negotiations.
This decision will certainly set a precedent for other tight ends who line up outside the traditional positioning. Jared Cook and Jermichael Finley have already made such overtures.
It’s worth mentioning that whoever loses this ruling can and almost certainly will appeal the decision.
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.
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