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Gut feeling: The sadness that met the news of Arian Foster's release will be more profound than what Texans fans feel about the team's decision to jettison Garrett Graham.
The #Texans have released TE Garrett Graham, source said. This was coming, too.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 3, 2016
NFL sources confirm TE Garrett Graham released
— Mark Berman (@MarkBermanFox26) March 3, 2016
Texans release TE Garrett Graham after 6 seasons. Inactive last 9 games. Save 3.125 on cap
— John McClain (@McClain_on_NFL) March 3, 2016
Drafted by the Texans in the fourth round of the 2010 NFL Draft as an eventual replacement for Owen Daniels, Garrett Graham flashed enough that he was the first free agent signed (re-signed, really) after Bill O'Brien became head coach, inking a three-year extension for $11,250,000.00 approximately two years ago. At the time, it was a move generally applauded by Texans fans; Graham was young, and we all dreamed of Bill O'Brien utilizing tight ends like the Patriots did.
Alas, it was not meant to be. Graham was a complete non-factor after looking so promising in 2013, catching only 18 passes in 2014 and just 4 passes in 2015. Adding insult to injury was O'Brien's decision to make Graham a inactive and a healthy scratch for the second half of the 2015 season. Instead of playing Graham at tight end, the team opted to use Kendall Lamm as a sixth offensive lineman in certain packages. When you're inspiring posts built around you being the absolute worst in the league at your position, the die is cast. Graham's release was inevitable; the salary cap savings are just a bonus.
Because I want to close this on a a positive and don't want you to think Graham did nothing for the Texans, don't forget this impressive touchdown catch against the Panthers early in the season before he was consigned Bill O'Brien's doghouse. Graham will surely find work somewhere else in the NFL. Here's wishing him the best.