Jimmy Graham retires as a Saint
Jimmy Graham retires as a Saint Jimmy Graham/Facebook

Known for his athleticism and red-zone dominance, long-time NFL tight end Jimmy Graham has officially announced his retirement from the NFL. The 38-year-old confirmed the news on 22 July 2025, revealing he would retire as a member of the New Orleans Saints, the franchise that drafted him in 2010.

Graham Announces Retirement With Emotional Tribute to Saints

The report was made via X by Saints website's reporter John DeShazier, where he announced that Graham 'plans to officially retire this year from the NFL, fittingly as a Saint'. The tight end then responded to the post, 'What a journey'.

Graham's decision concludes a career that spanned over a decade and included tenures with four different NFL teams. He cited his connection to New Orleans as a key reason for choosing to end his playing days with the team that launched his career.

'I just want to make sure when I retire, it's as a Saint, and it's when they want me to. I'll just make sure I give them a call and see exactly when they want me to retire and then I'll end up doing it', Graham said, as reported by ESPN.

From Draft Pick to Dominant Tight End

Graham entered the NFL in 2010 as a third-round pick (95th overall) by the Saints, despite limited college football experience. A former basketball player at the University of Miami, he quickly transitioned into one of the league's most productive tight ends, forming a lethal connection with quarterback Drew Brees.

In his second season, Graham recorded 1,310 receiving yards and 11 touchdowns, signalling his emergence as a top-tier offensive weapon. In 2013, he led the entire NFL with 16 touchdown receptions, the second-highest single-season total ever by a tight end at the time.

Over the course of his 13-year NFL career, Graham became known for his physicality, aerial ability and mismatch potential against defenders.

Jimmy Graham Career Stats: A Legacy of Production

Graham finished his career having played 197 regular-season games. According to NOLA.com, His final statistical line includes 719 receptions, 8,545 receiving yards and 89 receiving touchdowns (94 including playoffs).

His touchdown total places him fifth all-time among NFL tight ends, a testament to his consistent scoring ability. Graham's two 1,000-yard seasons and five Pro Bowl selections underline his impact across multiple eras of the league.

Teams Played For: A Journey Across the NFL

Although he started and ended his career with the Saints, Graham played for three other teams during his NFL tenure:

  • New Orleans Saints (2010–2014, 2023): His most productive years came in New Orleans, including multiple Pro Bowl appearances and record-setting seasons.
  • Seattle Seahawks (2015–2017): Graham adapted to a new offensive system and remained a primary red-zone target.
  • Green Bay Packers (2018–2019): He brought veteran experience to a team led by Aaron Rodgers, contributing in crucial playoff runs.
  • Chicago Bears (2020–2021): Graham played a rotational role, adding touchdowns and mentoring younger players.

In 2023, Graham returned to the Saints for a farewell campaign, recording four touchdowns and catching six passes in 13 games.

Jimmy Graham Net Worth and Post-NFL Pursuits

As of 2025, according to Celebrity Net Worth, Graham's estimated net worth stands at approximately £8.8 million ($12 million). His earnings came from NFL contracts, endorsements and strategic investments throughout his career.

In addition to his football legacy, Graham made headlines in July 2025 by completing the Arctic Challenge, a 584-mile (940-km) ocean rowing expedition. He became the first Black person to row across a polar ocean, completing the journey in just over 10 days and setting a new record.

The expedition raised funds for Covenant House New Orleans and Laureus Sport for Good New Orleans, reflecting Graham's growing commitment to charitable initiatives and adventure sports.

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