Jimmy Graham: Based on the Saints, I’ll decide whether to retire.

NFL tight end Jimmy Graham is still open to participating in football.

In an effort to break the world record, Graham is presently preparing to row 1,000 kilometers across the Arctic Ocean the following summer. Graham will be a member of a four-person team that aims to surpass the 15 days, 5 hours, and 32 minutes existing record.

He also has upcoming plans for several lengthy bike rides in the next year, including a race alongside former NFL tight end Luke Willson at the end of June.

However, Graham, who expressed gratitude to the New Orleans Saints on his Instagram in March, stated that he’s undecided about retirement when recently questioned about it.

“I’m going to consult with the Saints to determine what’s best, and then decide when it’s appropriate for me to retire,” he informed ESPN.

Last year, Graham signed a one-year contract with the Saints after being absent from football in 2022, emphasizing his intention to return to the league solely to play in New Orleans. Graham reiterated this stance in a recent interview with ESPN.

“I have no specific expectations,” Graham remarked. “I just want to ensure that when I do retire, it’s as a Saint, and

at a time that suits them. I’ll reach out to them and ascertain when they believe it’s the right moment for me to retire, and then I’ll act accordingly.”

Turning 38 in November, Graham stands fourth among tight ends and 16th overall with 89 career receiving

touchdowns. If he continues playing in 2024, he’ll be the second-oldest active tight end. His former teammate

Marcedes Lewis recently announced his return to play for the Chicago Bears this year at the age of 40.

Graham participated in 13 games for the Saints last season, making six catches, four of which were touchdowns.

Despite his contributions, the Saints finished with a 9-8 record and missed the playoffs.

“I believe anything is achievable,” Graham responded when asked if he could balance football and training for ocean

rowing. “Currently, I’m enjoying how my body feels, especially my joints and such.”

“Last year was challenging for all of us. There were numerous setbacks, despite having such a strong team, we missed

the playoffs. I believe the team is even stronger now. It’ll certainly be intriguing for me to observe from home, if that’s the case.”

“I know many were surprised I returned at my age and doubted my abilities. However, every time I stepped on the

field, I made the most of it. I believe I demonstrated that I still possess the athleticism to make plays and score touchdowns.”

Saints tight ends coach Clancy Barone, who facilitated Graham’s return to the NFL after a year off, expressed

confidence that Graham would be prepared to play if given the opportunity.

“He’s the ultimate competitor, the ultimate team player, and I’m certain he’ll excel in whatever he chooses to pursue.

Until he makes a decision, I wouldn’t discount the possibility of him returning to football,” Barone stated.