The news that tight end Daniel Graham has signed a 5-year, $30 million contract with the Denver Bronocs raises significant questions about the contract status of Eagles' tight end LJ Smith. Graham, considered primarily as a blocking tight end, hauled in 21 receptions for 235 yards and only two touchdowns in 2006. Somehow, Graham parlayed a statistically mediocre season into a contract that makes him the second highest paid tight end in the NFL.
What does this mean for Smith, the fifth-year player, who caught 50 balls, for 611 yards, and 5 touchdowns in 2006? It means he is due a whole lot of friggen money come this time next March. The Eagles have previously tried to extend Smith's contract, but he has yet to accept any of the team's offers to this point. Smith is an athletic tight end and has the ability to stretch the field at any time in order to make a big play. He struggles with his consistency, but is still considered among the upper-echelon of tight ends around the league.
Now, the Eagles must decide if they will up the ante to retain Smith or if they will be better served by bringing in another tight end via the draft. My guess, at this point, is the Eagles will elect to go with the latter. One thing is for certain, based on Graham's abilities and the monster contract he just signed, Smith is due to make some serious money.
About Me
- Bob Wankel
- My name is Bob Wankel. I'm a junior studying English and Education at Monmouth University. I have been published in southern New Jersey's "Courier-Post" and have done some work with NFL Films.