When the Saints tagged quarterback Drew Brees in 2012, the sides managed to strike a long-term deal just ahead of the July 15 deadline. Expect a similar scenario with Jimmy Graham, according to the New Orleans Times-Picayune.
"It's in everyone's best interests for Graham to sign a long-term contract," the paper said. "But that was the case with Brees, too, and look how long that negotiation took. Expect a similar process with Graham.
"Deadlines spur action in the NFL and the real deadline to secure a long-term deal for Graham isn't until July 15."
In the meantime, the sides are expected to battle over whether Graham should be considered a tight end or receiver. The receiver tag would cost New Orleans nearly $5 million more.