The New Orleans Saints and the Seahawks struck a deal that will send tight end Jimmy Graham and a fourth-round pick to Seattle in exchange for center Max Unger and a first-round pick, according to Jay Glazer of Fox Sports.

Graham signed a contract extension with the Saints worth $40 million over five seasons. He's due a $2 million roster bonus on Thursday, adding to the urgency of making the swap. Graham's been an essential part of the Saints offense over the last five seasons, with 51 total touchdown catches and more than 4,700 yards. The move clears $11 million in cap space for the Saints this season, which helps get them closer to being under the cap.

For the Seahawks, adding Graham finally gives them the bona fide blue chip offensive player they've been looking for over the last few years. Seattle acquired Percy Harvin in 2013 for a first-round pick, but dealt him to the Jets for what turned out to be sixth-rounder after the Jets released him.

New Orleans will receive Seattle's first-round pick, the 31st overall pick in the draft this year, giving the Saints two first-rounders.

SB Nation presents: Luke Thomas is pissed about Marshawn Lynch