Arbitrator side with Saints, NFL in ruling Jimmy Graham is TE for franchise tag purposes
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An arbitrator has sided with the New Orleans Saints in ruling that Jimmy Graham can only be considered a tight end for the purposes of his franchise tag designation.
The ruling Wednesday by Stephen Burbank is setback for Graham, agent Jimmy Sexton and the NFL Players Association, who'd filed a grievance arguing that Graham was used as a wide receiver often enough to qualify for the more lucrative receiver tag.
NFL franchise tags, which allow teams to keep one prized free agent, was set this year $7 million for tight ends and $12.3 million for receivers.
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The NFLPA says it's reviewing the ruling and will advise Graham on his options, which could include an appeal.
Graham has skipped Saints offseason practices while holding out for a new contract.
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AP NFL website: www.pro32.ap.org and www.twitter.com/AP_NFL