NEW ORLEANS — Saints tight end, Jimmy Graham shares thank you to New Orleans again. This comes after his ambiguous series of stories posted on his Instagram in January hinting that he could soon be leaving the NFL.
On Friday, Graham posted on Instagram thanking the city of New Orleans and the Saints organization. Towards the end of the post, he said he was "unsure of what the future holds."
The 13-year NFL veteran, who played his first five seasons in New Orleans, returned to the Saints in 2023 after taking the previous year off from playing pro football.
The 37-year-old joined the Saints in 2010 as a third-round selection (No. 95 overall) out of the University of Miami (Fla.). In 2015, the 6-foot-7, 265-pounder was traded to the Seattle Seahawks in one of the team's most unpopular trades in franchise history.
In January, he posted: "It's been real [New Orleans]. Thank you for all the love." Months later, it's still unclear if he's preparing to leave the NFL.
Graham's post reads:
"New Orleans,
As I take a moment to reflect on the incredible journey we’ve embarked on together, I’m filled with an overwhelming sense of gratitude and pride. Fourteen years ago, this city, its passionate fans, dedicated coaches and my incredibly talented teammates welcomed me with open arms, believing in a young player’s potential to contribute to the storied legacy of the New Orleans Saints. The belief has been the bedrock of my career, and for that, I am eternally grateful.
To the city of New Orleans, there are no words to fully express my appreciation for your unwavering support. Playing for this city was an honor that transcended the game of football. It was never just about the sport or a paycheck. It was about being part of a community that breathes and lives for football, a community that finds joy, solace and unity in the game. Every time I stepped onto the field, it was with the intention of bringing joy and victories to a city that holds football dearer than life itself.
To the incredible fans, your energy and love for the game have been my motivation. Your cheers, faith and spirit have been the soundtrack of my career. I hope that in some way I have been able to bring you joy and pride, just as you have brought me inspiration and success.
To the coaches who have guided me, your wisdom, patience and belief in my abilities have shaped me into the player and person I am today. Your dedication to excellence and growth, both on and off the field, has been instrumental in my journey. I am deeply thankful for every lesson, every challenge and every opportunity you’ve provided me.
And to my teammates, my brothers in arms, thank you for your camaraderie, your support, and the countless memories we’ve created together. The bonds we’ve formed through victories and defeats have been the highlight of my career. Your talent, resilience and dedication have not only driven us to success, but have also made this journey one of the most fulfilling experiences of my life.
As I look back, I am filled with pride for what we’ve accomplished together. The city of New Orleans and the Saints organization have given me more than I could ever ask for. I hope I’ve been able to contribute to that legacy in some way.
Thank you, New Orleans, for believing in me. Thank you for the memories, the love, and the incredible journey. Playing for this city and for you, the fans, has been the honor of a lifetime. Unsure of what the future holds for myself, but I am incredibly thankful for the opportunity to wear (No.) 80 again and find the end zone in the only home I know.
With all my heart,
Jimmy Graham"
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