What It Means:

Seattle coach Pete Carroll has been optimistic about Graham returning for the beginning of next season. Despite what Carroll says, Graham is facing a steep uphill climb to be ready for the start of 2016. As we learned with Victor Cruz and many others, a torn patellar tendon is among the worst injuries an athlete can suffer. Graham is facing a tough recovery process that should last well into training camp. Even if he gets back in time for Week 1, Graham is unlikely to be as effective coming off the devastating injury.

After catching at least 85 balls in each of his last four seasons with the New Orleans Saints, Graham ended his first season in Seattle with just 44 receptions. Among tight ends with at least 30 targets, he came into Week 12 ranked ninth in Reception Net Expected Points per target.