Former New Orleans Saints legend Jimmy Graham received love from Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce on his podcast “New Heights". Kelce is known as one of the best pass catchers at the position, but he recognized Graham’s contributions in creating the modern tight end. He was dominant while in New Orleans and is one of the most underrated players in recent memory.
“I feel like (Jimmy Graham) has never gotten the true respect that he deserves at the tight end position,” Kelce said, “I want to give Jimmy some love because what he did to change the game isn’t talked about enough.”
Kelce acknowledged that Graham is severely underrated. He was one of the top players in the NFL during his stint on the Saints, but hasn’t received love for it. Despite this, he will always be a legend in New Orleans.
Jimmy Graham paved the way for the modern tight end
The 6-foot-7, 265 pound player was a foundational piece in creating the “receiving threat” at tight end. Graham totalled 392 receptions, 4,791 yards, and 55 touchdowns in his six years on the Saints. His best season came in 2011 where he surpassed 1,300 yards and 11 scores. He proved that a tight end can be a focal point in an offense.
Graham showcased his elite athleticism nearly every play. The former collegiate basketball player had an absurd 38.5 inch vertical jump and consistently used it to box out receivers and highpoint the ball. He combined this with impressive route running to create a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses.
Graham was a better athlete than Kelce, but their role in the offense is eerily similar. Each was the primary target for a Hall-of-Fame quarterback and a main receiving threat. Prior to Graham, this role hadn’t been carved out in the NFL, but he opened up this and helped create a role for countless future players.