Jimmy Graham: 'Franchise tag would be unfortunate'

Jimmy Graham has said that being placed under the New Orleans Saints' franchise tag would be "unfortunate".

The tight end is due to be a free agent during the off-season, but the NFC South side's general manager, Mickey Loomis, has already indicated that the team would use the tag on Graham if they cannot agree a long-term contract.

The 27-year-old told reporters: "If that happens, it doesn't really matter what I prefer. I'm not keen on the franchise tag, that would be really unfortunate, but that is really all I have to say about that one."

Graham led the NFL with 16 touchdown receptions in the 2013.