The New Orleans Saints were the fifth-best team in terms of defense by allowing just 314.8 yards per game last season. On the offensive side of the ball, the team ranked 19th by recording 333.8 yards per game while going 7-10 and missing the postseason.
Heading into a new season, the Saints were projected to be one of the best squads in the league. Following the arrest of their tight end Jimmy Graham, the hope faded, albeit latest developments are echoing refound optimism for the team.
Saints Jimmy Graham avoids criminal charges
According to the Orange County district attorney’s office spokesperson, Jimmy Graham will face no charges against his August arrest in California. The source said the case was dropped as no sufficient information was found to prove him guilty.
The veteran was taken into custody by Newport Beach authorities on August 19, following the allegation of obstructing a police officer and suspicion of being under the influence of narcotics. The Saints squad was having their joint practice, and a preseason game against the Los Angeles Chargers at that time.
Following Thursday’s practice, the 36-year-old thanked authorities for dealing with the matter cautiously.
“Thanks for (the) LAPD and just how quickly kind of everything went down and kind of how helpful they were through the process. Right now, we’re just dealing with that all personally”, he said.
The TE voiced optimism and thanked the franchise as well as his well-wishers for backing him up during this legal saga.
“I’m feeling great, just looking forward and excited to put (the arrest and related medical matter) behind me. I’ll be fine in the long run. Just want to thank the organization and everybody that was with me through those couple of days.”
Derek Carr’s arrival elevates the Saints to dark horse playoff contenders
The Saints will open their regular season against the Tennessee Titans on Sunday. The team is having sky-high expectations by keeping their new starter Derek Carr at the helm. The signal-caller recorded 24 touchdown passes and 14 interceptions in 15 games for the Las Vegas Raiders last year.
Besides him, the wide receiver duo Chris Olave and Michael Thomas are expected to excel at the receiver position, while veteran running back Alvin Kamara is also gearing up after return from suspension. Graham is also now out of legal battles.
Meanwhile, this will be the second time the New Orleans Saints are set to face the Tennessee Titans in a season opener. The Saints defeated the Titans, formerly known as Houston Oilers, back in 1993, in a Sunday Night Football match. What’s your prediction regarding the match? Do you think that Carr’s team would be able to live up to the lofty expectations? Share your thoughts in the comment section.
