Jimmy Graham Injury: Saints TE expects to play but not start

New Orleans Saints superstar tight end Jimmy Graham went down with an injury in the team’s Week 5 overtime win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and he has a shot at playing today against the Detroit Lions after having the bye week to rest. If the Saints weren’t on a bye last week, Graham wouldn’t have been able to play, and his shoulder injury seemed to be somewhat significant.

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ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports that Graham will test his shoulder out during pre-game warm-ups, meaning that he is, as expected, a game-time decision. Per Schefter, Graham expects to play at this juncture, but he isn’t expected to start. We should see plenty of the rising Josh Hill at tight end this afternoon, but Graham will get targets at critical points in the game, such as during third downs and red zone plays.

The whole limited role thing happened last year, and Graham managed to have a massive impact in the red zone, as usual, so even a limited Graham poses a big danger to opponents. The Saints need this win badly, as it would make a huge statement. They’ve been one of the most disappointing teams this year, so this is a key marquee matchup after the bye week.

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