Jimmy Graham thanks New Orleans and the Saints in retirement announcement
After his intent to retire was shared by Saints team reporter John DeShazier, Graham sent out a thoughtful message to New Orleans as a whole and fans of the team that gave him an opportunity to shine. Here's the full quote:
Walking away from this game is emotional... not because it's over, but because of what it gave me.
New Orleans... you didn't just take a chance on a football player.
You gave an orphaned basketball player a shot when the rest of the league had doubts. The coaches, the staff, my teammates... you all became family. Every yard I ran, every touchdown I fought for, I gave you my entire spirit.
This city didn't just change my life...it became a part of who I am.
Forever grateful.
Graham's career in New Orleans was an extremely special one, and as it finally sets in for everyone involved, hopefully, he will find a spot in the Saints Hall of Fame and Ring of Honor, where he belongs without a shadow of a doubt. Even better, a Pro Football Hall of Fame nod would be spectacular, but that is further down the road once his eligibility opens up.
A legendary player, whenever he took the field, he now steps away and pursues a multitude of other goals in life, as the team looks to pay their dues to one of the best to ever don the Black and Gold.
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