NFL preseason 2015: Players with most to prove

Dec 21, 2014; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Jets quarterback Geno Smith (7) reacts after an incomplete pass during the third quarter against the New England Patriots at MetLife Stadium. The Patriots defeated the Jets 17-16. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /

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Jan 23, 2015; Scottsdale, AZ, USA; New Orleans Saints tight end Jimmy Graham (80) and Baltimore Ravens linebacker Elvis Dumervil (58) at Team Irvin practice at Scottsdale Community College in advance of the 2015 Pro Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /

Seattle Seahawks – Jimmy Graham

Why is he the pick?

This might surprise some people, but Graham has plenty to prove now that he is on the Seahawks. With Seattle, Graham will be asked to become a blocking tight end along with showing off his prolific receiving ability. When Graham was starring for the New Orleans Saints, he was mostly expected to register a high volume of catches with yards after the catch.

The Seahawks certainly look at Graham as a weapon first and foremost, but this is not Sean Payton’s offense. Graham is not going to catch 80 passes and score 12 touchowns. He is also about to play in bad weather and on a power football team. Can he adjust to the elements or is Graham going to be a massive disappointment?

What is at stake?

Seattle’s about to have a multi-dimensional offense. With this team, we all know the genesis of the offense is coming from running back Marshawn Lynch and quarterback Russell Wilson’s legs. Yet, if Seattle wants to stay atop the heap, it needs to feature a go-to receiver. Graham has the capability to be that player for the Seahawks, but can he step up?

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