TheOak

I'll tell you how I interpret this and the CBA in regards to this, there are separate and distinct items which have to be processed in order for it to make sense.


First and foremost Jimmy Graham is a Free Agent, and the non-exclusive Franchise Tag makes him a "restricted" free agent because there is a right of first refusal by the Saints. Make sense?

Ok

May 2nd was the last day a restricted free agent could sign an offer sheet with another club.

May 7th was the deadline for the Right of First Refusal for Clubs that had restricted free agents that signed offer sheets.

So.... To answer your question, the Draft picks for Jimmy ship sailed last Friday.

Now I know a few people are upset that Jimmy waited just before the draft to file the grievance.

I don't think that is the case, I believe Jimmy and his agent waited until the offer sheet period was over and then filed the grievance which just so happens to be right before the draft. The reason is that Jimmy didn't want a ruling stating his tag was worth 7m as a TE while he was negotiating with other teams. All they would have to offer is 8m to beat what he would make for his tag. He also wanted to make sure he didn't have to battle over his Tag designation with the Saints unless it was absolutely necessary.

Help any? I know it is contradictory to 90% that is out there, but I have experience in negotiating and interpreting contract T&C and that is how I see it all. It's the only scenario that makes complete sense to me from start to finish.