Jimmy Graham tries to ignore the spotlight

New Orleans Saints rookie tight end Jimmy Graham said he isn't getting caught up in the hype that's been growing around him this summer.

For one, he said he's trying to stay grounded, work hard and get better every day.

He's also trying to save a few bucks.

"DT told me every time my name comes up (in the media), I have to buy him a meal," Graham said, referring to veteran tight end David Thomas. "That's why I try to keep away (from the spotlight)."

Graham's going to have trouble staying anonymous if he continues to make eye-popping plays on the practice field - like his dazzling one-handed catch on a deep ball from Drew Brees on Friday afternoon.

Graham admitted that one was pretty special. He said he watched it back about five times on film and that teammates were joking with him about the size of his hands.

"I guess I got lucky. Hopefully I can do that in a big game," said Graham, who is trying to remain both humble and confident. "I definitely think I can (make plays like that). I think that's why they brought me here."

There have been some lowlights, too, for the converted basketball player who played just one year of college football as a fifth-year senior. He dropped two balls in Saturday morning's practice.

But Graham said he doesn't get too down on himself, either, after those moments.

"I know I have an end goal, and that's what I work toward every day," Graham said. "I try to work on something to get better every day."



(nola.com)