The Cleveland Browns might have themselves a super duo along the defensive line with the tandem of Myles Garrett and former Michigan Wolverines star Mason Graham.
After trading down in the 2025 NFL Draft, the Browns are hoping they don’t regret passing on two-way star Travis Hunter to take Graham with the No.5 overall pick, unless the Michigan product was going to be their selection at No. 2.
In that case, the Browns may have pulled off something great in adding additional draft capital and still getting their guy. If Graham comes as advertised, they will be the biggest winders of the 2025 NFL Draft.
As one of the top defensive linemen entering the draft, the Browns should at the very least have a solid player who will be stout against the run and with his high motor, Graham can collapse the pocket in his pursuit to the quarterback. His overall power, bust and relentless effort showed in his final season with the Wolverines as he put together 45 combined tackles and 3.5 sacks.
With a strong training camp and solid showing in the preseason, how much of an impact will Graham make in Year 1?
Graham known as a disruptor
In selecting Graham, Cleveland Browns general manager Andrew Berry not only added depth to his defensive line, but a versatile player who can be a force in the middle and be a presence on the edge opposite Garrett.
“He is a DNA match for our defense,” Berry said immediately following the 2025 NFL Draft. “A disruptive interior penetrator…we thought he was one of the more dominant trench prospects in this year’s class.”
Will he prove that in Year 1?
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Mason Graham’s first two sacks come early
In a bold prediction that will make Browns fans pump their fists; Graham will make his presence known quickly in the AFC North by sacking the division’s top quarterbacks in back-to-back games. His high motor will be on display in Week 1 against the Baltimore Ravens with a track down sack on Lamar Jackson. In Week 2, Graham will bulldoze the Bengals’ offensive line to get to Joe Burrow to start off his quick start in the NFL.
Although the sacks will solidify the buzz, Graham’s presence will be most noticeable against the run as the season moves forward. He will end his rookie season with 5.5 total sacks and put his name on the list as one of the top defensive tackles in the league.
In all, a solid-to-great rookie season for the Browns’ top pick.