The Seattle Seahawks open the 2017 NFL regular season on the road, facing off against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field.

Liz Mathews, USA TODAY , KING 8:42 AM. PDT August 11, 2017

When the Seattle Seahawks traded with New Orleans in 2015 for Jimmy Graham, it was easy to imagine quarterback Russell Wilson finding his tight end down in the end zone.

But for Graham and many Seattle fans, his first season was a disappointment, cut short in November with a torn patellar tendon. Returning in time to start the 2016 season, Graham was selected to his first Pro Bowl in the blue and green. Now acclimated to a different offense and signal caller, the hopes are high for Graham in his third season in Seattle.

And no one expects more than his quarterback.

Jimmy looks great, Wilson said during his Thursday press conference. Hes explosive and making all the plays. Hes such a great receiver, great player, and he can do it all. Hes an all pro tight end and he can make a lot of plays for us so we need him.

Russell Wilson press conference from VMAC. #SeahawksCamp https://t.co/Sx6CEvawjH

Wilson and Graham worked together extensively this offseason, but both had some individual goals as well. The quarterback and his tight end each shed significant weight in preparation for the new year.

Graham spoke with 710 ESPN Seattles John Clayton on Monday and said he was down 20 pounds from last year, now tipping the scales at a svelte 260. He credited former NFL tight end Tony Gonzalez who advised him to shave off the weight as he got older.

Wilson also worked diligently this offseason to slim down, limiting himself to nine meals a day at just 4800 calories. But it isnt just the weight loss that is different heading into this season, both players are finally on the mend.

I think, also, Jimmy is really healthy right now, Wilson explained. Last year, he was coming off an injury in training camp and that whole spring, so we didnt get as much practice. I mean, we were able to throw a little bit and catch and stand there and everything else. But this offseason, we were able to train a lot. He looks really good, hes super excited about having a great year. Hes an exciting player, thats for sure.

Now this year, its Wilson who is coming off an injury-riddled season, but finally feeling 100 percent. Able to train with Graham all offseason, Wilson was asked about the chemistry with his star tight end.

I keep it simple, Wilson said. When you throw it to them, they catch it. Thats usually the telltale sign more than anything else.

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Seahawks Wilson and Graham lose pounds, gain chemistry - KING5.com