The NFL Players Association has filed a grievance on Graham's behalf, arguing the franchise tag the New Orleans Saints placed on him in February should pay him like a wide receiver, not a tight end, a person close to Graham said on Wednesday.

The grievance was filed after long-term contract talks between Graham and the Saints continued to stall.

The difference between the franchise tender amounts is nearly $5.3 million, with the tight end tag worth $7.035 million — the amount of the tender Graham has not signed — and the receiver tag worth $12.312 million.