The Cleveland Browns have finally made a pick in the first round. After trading the No. 2 pick, the Browns used the No. 5 selection obtained from the Jacksonville Jaguars. The Browns selected Michigan defensive tackle Mason Graham.
Graham was the fourth-best player on NFL Network analyst Daniel Jeremiah's draft board. By that measure, the Browns got good value with their first-round pick
The two-time All-American defensive tackle comes in as one of the most sought defensive tackles in the draft. He played a lot of football in college, starting 39 games.
Graham helped the Wolverines win the College Football Playoff National Championship in 2023. He led the team in tackles across 13 games that season. He was also named the Defensive Player of the Game in the 2024 Rose Bowl.
Graham evolved into one of the best defensive linemen in college football. Being credited with a unanimous All-American and a first-team All-Big Ten nomination, Graham possesses unique experience in the trenches.
Checking most of the boxes for the crucial role of stopping opposing ball carriers, defensive tackles ideally weigh up to 320 pounds. Graham is quick and weighs in at 296 pounds.
Graham is a three-technique who possesses a high motor and a lot of strength. He has first-step quickness, which puts pressure on the interior offensive line. He reads and reacts to the ball carrier with tremendous quickness as well. He usually wins his lateral blocks and can beat the lineman to the gap.
Graham said he was excited to line up next to Myles Garrett on game day.
