
Michigan Wolverines’ junior defensive tackle, Mason Graham, has officially declared for the 2025 NFL Draft, concluding a remarkable collegiate career that significantly contributed to Michigan’s recent successes.
Graham’s tenure at Michigan was marked by consistent excellence and a relentless drive that earned him national recognition. As a freshman in 2022, he made an immediate impact by participating in all 14 games, recording 27 tackles and 2.5 sacks. His debut performance against Colorado State was particularly notable, as he secured his first career sack, setting the tone for his collegiate journey. His efforts did not go unnoticed, culminating in a selection to the True Freshman All-America team by Pro Football Focus.
The 2023 season saw Graham elevate his performance further. He amassed 36 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss, and three sacks over 13 games. His standout performance in the Rose Bowl against Alabama, where he was named Defensive Player of the Game, was instrumental in Michigan’s victory. This achievement was a prelude to the Wolverines securing the National Championship with a decisive win over Washington. Graham’s contributions earned him second-team All-American honors from The Sporting News and a first-team All-Big Ten selection, solidifying his status as a defensive powerhouse.
Entering his junior year in 2024, Graham was widely regarded as one of the premier interior defensive linemen in college football. Analysts projected him as a potential early first-round pick in the upcoming NFL Draft, drawing comparisons to NFL talents like Daron Payne of the Washington Commanders, known for his combination of upfield burst, upper-body strength, and power.
Throughout the 2024 season, Graham continued to showcase his dominance on the defensive front. He recorded 45 tackles, seven tackles for loss, and 3.5 sacks, maintaining his reputation as a formidable force against both the run and pass. His performances in key games, including a six-tackle effort with a sack against USC and a career-high two sacks against Minnesota, underscored his ability to impact high-stakes contests.
Graham’s relentless work ethic and on-field intelligence have been lauded by coaches and analysts alike. Former Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh once referred to him as a “Gift from the Football Gods,” highlighting his unique blend of physicality and technique. Graham’s background as a wrestler has been cited as a factor in his exceptional leverage and hand usage, attributes that have translated seamlessly to his football prowess.
In recognition of his outstanding junior season, Graham was named a finalist for both the Bronko Nagurski Trophy, awarded to the nation’s top defensive player, and the Outland Trophy, given to the best interior lineman. He also achieved unanimous All-American honors, becoming the 29th player in Michigan’s storied history to receive such distinction.
Concluding his collegiate career, Graham accumulated impressive statistics over 39 games, including 108 tackles, 18 tackles for loss, and nine sacks. His decision to enter the NFL Draft marks the end of a significant chapter for Michigan football, as they bid farewell to a player whose contributions were pivotal in their recent achievements. As Graham transitions to the professional arena, he leaves behind a legacy of excellence and a standard for future Wolverines to aspire to.Â