Green Bay Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst said that he believes that Jimmy Graham will suit up in 2020. But it appears it could be for another team.
As the Packers prepare for the offseason, they are expected to release Graham via Pete Dougherty of Packers News.
Just like every other team in the NFL, the Packers will have plenty of decisions to make this offseason. Among them, Graham could become a cap casualty for Green Bay to help free up some cap space.
Next season, Graham will be playing in the final year of the three-year contract he signed with the Packers in 2018. If the veteran tight end were to remain in Green Bay, he would be a cap hit of nearly $12 million. At the same time, the Packers could create $8 million in cap space if they released Graham.
Given the number of players that Green Bay wants to retain, it's expected that Graham has played in his final down with the Packers. This past season, Graham contributed 38 receptions for 447 yards and three touchdowns. The 38 receptions and 447 yards were the lowest in his career since his rookie season in 2010.
Above all, Graham is 33-years-old and is no longer the dominant player he once was. The Packers drafted Jace Sternberger in last year's draft in the third round. Therefore, Sternberger could be asked to step into a more prominent role in 2020.
During the playoffs, Sternberger hauled in three passes for 15 yards and one touchdown. Even though Graham is set to return for his 11th season in the NFL in 2020, it seems it will be for someone not named the Packers.
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