5 things to know about new Bears TE Jimmy Graham

The Bears have made it a point to address tight end this offseason. Get to know Chicago’s newest tight end Jimmy Graham.

3. Ryan Pace had front-row seat to Graham’s best seasons in New Orleans

Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

Considering the Bears aren’t getting Graham in his prime, there had to be a reason that Chicago was high enough on him to give him a two-year deal worth $16 million with $9 million guaranteed.

But of course. It’s the Ryan Pace connection

Bears general manager Ryan Pace was with the Saints when they drafted Graham in the third round of the 2010 NFL Draft. Pace got a front-row seat to the kind of weapon Graham became for Drew Brees. In five seasons with the Saints, Graham averaged 77 catches, 950 yards and 10 touchdowns.

Hopefully Pace realizes that we’re not going back in time with Graham here. Because if Pace is banking on Graham to turn the tight end problem around, Pace might be out of a job by season’s end.

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