Around the NFL

Seahawks get Jimmy Graham from Saints

Published: Mar 10, 2015 at 08:49 AM

Kevin Patra

Senior News Writer

The New Orleans Saints haven't been shy about shaking things up after a disappointing season.

Apparently that extends to almost everyone on their roster.

NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported Tuesday of a trade to ship tight end Jimmy Graham to Seattle, according to a Seahawks source. The Seahawks later confirmed the trade in a release.

(I'll pause to allow Who Dat Nation to stop hyperventilating.)

The Saints will send Graham and a fourth-round pick to the Seahawks for a first-round pick (No. 31 overall) and center Max Unger.

Last summer, the Saints locked Graham down on a four-year, $40 million contract.

Parting ways with a difference-maker and massive matchup problem seems to be incongruous with Sean Payton's offensive that leans on scheme versatility.

However, the three-time Pro Bowl player has dealt with injuries that have hindered him the past several seasons. The Saints could believe the first-round pick, a solid center and the ability to shed Graham's contract is worth moving him before his body breaks down further.

When the 28-year-old is healthy, he is a matchup nightmare and one of the best red-zone threats in the NFL.

Somewhere Russell Wilson is dancing with joy.

The Seahawks' biggest need this offseason was a red-zone threat and a tight end. In one swoop they have gotten a player that can dominate.

The Saints parted ways with a Pro Bowl player in his prime and the NFC Champions picked up a killer weapon. As in life, often times the rich do get richer.

The latest Around The NFL Podcast analyzes early free agency news, including Ndamukong Suh to Miami, Devin McCourty's new deal and much more. Find more Around The NFL content on NFL NOW.

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