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Jets waive goodbye as Graham seeks new home

  • Friday, September 19 2008 @ 12:10 pm ACST
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North America Ben Graham has been dumped by the New York Jets. The former Geelong captain who made the code switch to play in the NFL as a punter, was cut from the Jets after a poor punting performance last weekend.

Graham, a former Geelong and NY Jets captain who has played 49 games for the Jets, said he would embrace the challenge of other opportunities within the NFL. In a press release Graham reaffirmed his commitment to continue his punting career elsewhere. “I would like to thank the Jets for the opportunity they have given me and my family, and the privilege of playing for the organisation,” Graham said.

“Today’s events are disappointing but I'm confident I will continue my career elsewhere and I will fully explore the initial enquires that have already presented themselves. The NFL is a tough business and all players move freely and far more often than back at home in Australia. There have already been several punters change teams during this season. “I respect the Jets decision and from tomorrow we will be working diligently to continue this great journey...It’s early days and I consider myself a career punter.”

In three seasons, Graham achieved the second and third best net average for a season in New York Jets franchise history. “I have been blessed with the opportunity to break into the NFL from Australia and this is a far smaller bump in the road than what we went through as a family to make it into the league in the first place.

"I have put my family through a hell of a lot but I know it will be all worth it in the end...I wish the Jets organisation the very best for the rest of the season and look forward to the next phase of our American life.”

In terms of exposure for Australian Rules football, if he can make the move to a new club, there will be a whole new city that will be exposed to Ben Graham's background as an Aussie Rules footballer. And if he is not picked up in the near future, perhaps the New York Magpies might seek an exemption to play him at this year's USAFL Nationals in Colorado Springs?