Jimmy Graham could become very important for Saints offense amid injuries
The New Orleans Saints suffered more than a loss on their record in Week 12. Injuries plagued the offense in a major way. Chris Olave and Rashid shaheed both left the game and did not return. Erik McCoy and Ryan Ramcyzk both left with ailments, too. Juwan Johnson left after a hard collision but returned […]
The New Orleans Saints suffered more than a loss on their record in Week 12. Injuries plagued the offense in a major way.
Chris Olave and Rashid shaheed both left the game and did not return. Erik McCoy and Ryan Ramcyzk both left with ailments, too. Juwan Johnson left after a hard collision but returned later. Keep in mind that the Saints are without wide receiver Michael Thomas while he is on injured reserve as well.
Could veteran tight end Jimmy Graham step up as a key contributor if Shaheed and Olave both miss time?
Saints head coach Dennis Allen hinted at that happening during media availability on Monday afternoon. He was asked if Graham could see an increased role due to the injuries to pass catchers, and he thinks that the vet could be part of the solution.
It would make sense, but it also raises another question. Why has Graham not been active much this season? When used, he was effective early in the season and during the postseason.
He has good chemistry with the offense, and the staff raved about his blocking improvements and usefulness in the red zone months ago. Now, he has not seen the field much at all this season.
The wide receiver depth chart behind the injured wideouts is unproven and lacks upside. The Saints will need two find production through the tight end and running back rooms.
Chris Olave, Michael Thomas, and Rashid Shaheed have combined for 135 of the offense's 272 receptions and seven of its 13 TD catches.
Shaheed's injury is reportedly not major, but he could miss at least this week, according to multiple sources. Olave has a concussion and will need to clear protocol to play next. Thomas will miss at least three more games.
Graham has not been active for most of this season, but his veteran presence and hard work could pay off for the Saints over the final month of the regular season. Keep an eye on him.
