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Graham injury worse than thought?

Saints add TE Tom Crabtree, put S Jairus Byrd on injured reserve

Posted by Mike Wilkening on October 8, 2014, 2:55 AM EDT
Atlanta Falcons v Tampa Bay Buccaneers
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With injuries a potential concern at tight end, the Saints added to their ranks at the position on Tuesday, signing Tom Crabtree, according to the NFL’s transactions.

The 28-year-old Crabtree played in seven games for Tampa Bay in 2013, catching four passes for 21 yards and a touchdown. This followed a three-season stint with Green Bay (2010-2012). Overall, Crabtree has caught 22 passes for 323 yards and five TDs in 53 regular season contests.

The Saints’ top tight end, Jimmy Graham, suffered a shoulder injury in Sunday’s win vs. Tampa Bay, but the injury is regarded as minor. What’s more, the Saints have their bye in Week Six, giving Graham extra time to heal before New Orleans returns to action on October 19 at Detroit.

However, even if Graham doesn’t miss any games, the Saints might want to manage his practice reps. The same could go for backup tight end Benjamin Watson, who has been dealing with a groin injury since Week Four. Crabtree’s addition gives the Saints four tight ends, with second-year pro Josh Hill another reserve option.

Crabtree takes the roster spot that belonged to free safety Jairus Byrd, who was placed on injured reserve on Tuesday. Byrd suffered a torn lateral meniscus last week.

"Two receivers to the left, Garcon to the right. Manning in the shotgun, puts Collie in motion. Looks in his direction...it's picked off! It's picked off! It's Tracy Porter again! He's runnin' free! He's gonna go all the way!