Mason Graham is a standout defensive lineman for the Michigan Wolverines, known for his powerful presence, quick hands, and relentless motor. As one of the top young players in college football, Graham has quickly made a name for himself and is expected to be a future first-round NFL draft pick.
From high school wrestling champ to dominating Big Ten offensive lines, Mason Graham’s rise is as impressive as it is inspiring. Let’s take a closer look at who he is, what makes him special, and why he’s being talked about as a future NFL star.
Who is Mason Graham?
Mason Graham is a defensive tackle currently playing for the University of Michigan Wolverines. Born in Anaheim, California, he attended Servite High School in Orange County before committing to Michigan in 2022. Despite being a three-star recruit, he quickly became a key player for Michigan’s defense.
Quick facts:
Full Name: Mason Graham
Position: Defensive Tackle
Height/Weight: 6’3”, 318 lbs
College: University of Michigan
Hometown: Anaheim, California
High School: Servite High School
Graham was known for his athleticism even before his college career took off. He was a state-level wrestler in high school—a sport that helped shape his quick hands, leverage, and strength.
Early Life and Background
Mason grew up in a competitive household and developed a love for sports at a young age. In addition to football, he was also an accomplished wrestler, which shaped his toughness and technical skills. Wrestling helped him build strong footwork and hand placement—two crucial skills for any defensive lineman.
During his time at Servite High School, Mason played against top-tier competition and earned All-State honors. Still, many scouts overlooked him because of his recruiting star rating. Michigan, however, saw his potential and brought him to Ann Arbor—and that’s when everything changed.
Mason Graham’s Michigan Breakout
In his true freshman season in 2022, Mason Graham appeared in 13 games and racked up:
27 total tackles
2.5 sacks
1 pass deflection
He earned Freshman All-American honors and quickly stood out among veterans. His quick rise didn’t just come from talent—it came from relentless work ethic, leadership, and an advanced understanding of defensive schemes.
By the time the 2023 season rolled around, Graham had transformed into a full-time starter and cornerstone of Michigan’s defensive line.
2023 Season Stats and Highlights
The 2023 season was where Mason Graham truly solidified his reputation. Playing alongside other top defensive linemen like Kris Jenkins and Kenneth Grant, Graham stood out with:
40+ total tackles
3.5 sacks
Multiple tackles for loss (TFLs)
Consistently high PFF (Pro Football Focus) grades
What’s impressive is how Graham wins matchups at the line of scrimmage. He combines:
Excellent hand usage
Leverage from his wrestling background
Surprising burst off the line
Nonstop energy
He even earned praise from NFL scouts, who pointed out how his tape resembled that of a veteran player. LeedsJournal.co.uk recently featured Graham in a spotlight on college athletes with rising draft stock.
Mason Graham’s Playing Style
Mason Graham isn’t your typical nose tackle or space-eater. He brings a rare mix of traits that allow him to succeed at both the run and pass game.
Key strengths:
Explosiveness: Quick off the snap, often the first to engage.
Technique: Hands always active, low pad level.
Motor: Plays through the whistle, rarely gives up on a play.
Versatility: Can play as a 3-technique or even line up over the center.
This versatility makes him a favourite in Michigan’s defensive schemes and a dream for future NFL defensive coordinators.
NFL Draft Prospects: Could Mason Graham Go in the First Round?
As of early 2025, Mason Graham is already generating first-round NFL Draft buzz.
Analysts on ESPN and The Athletic have pointed out that his blend of power, speed, and intelligence mirrors former top picks like Quinnen Williams and Christian Wilkins.
NFL Draft experts have highlighted:
High ceiling due to athleticism
Strong fundamentals already in place
Great locker-room presence and maturity
Multiple years of top-level college experience
Depending on how he finishes the 2024 season, Graham could easily be one of the top 3 interior defensive linemen taken in the 2025 NFL Draft. For more on top draft prospects, check out our NFL Draft Prospects 2025.
How He Compares to Other Top Defensive Linemen
Let’s break down how Mason Graham stacks up against other top D-linemen:
| Player | School | Height | Sacks (2023) | NFL Draft Stock |
| Mason Graham | Michigan | 6’3” | 3.5 | Late 1st – Early 2nd |
| Byron Murphy II | Texas | 6’1” | 5.0 | 1st Round |
| Kris Jenkins | Michigan | 6’3” | 2.5 | 2nd Round |
| Leonard Taylor III | Miami | 6’3” | 3.0 | 2nd-3rd Round |
While some linemen may have flashier sack numbers, Graham’s disruption rate and consistency put him at the top of the pack.
What Coaches and Teammates Say
Michigan head coach Jim Harbaugh has repeatedly praised Mason Graham for his leadership and maturity beyond his years.
“Mason’s a guy who leads with action. He’s got that old-school mentality but plays with new-school speed.”
Teammates have called him the “anchor of the line” and credit him for boosting the defense’s confidence.
According to LiverpoolReporter.co.uk, Graham has become a mentor for incoming freshmen and was voted a team captain going into the 2024 season.
Mason Graham Off the Field
Outside of football, Graham is known for his humility and focus. He’s a quiet, lead-by-example type of guy. Off the field, he:
Studies film obsessively
Is pursuing a degree in kinesiology
Volunteers in youth sports programmes
Enjoys surfing and working out
He’s also been spotted participating in NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) initiatives but chooses partnerships carefully, often supporting causes or brands he genuinely believes in.
Why Fans Love Mason Graham
Mason Graham has quickly become a fan favourite for several reasons:
He plays with heart
Shows up in big moments
Is loyal to his team and coaches
Represents everything good about college football
Whether it’s his hustle, post-game interviews, or massive hits, fans from both the US and UK college football communities have taken notice.
What’s Next for Mason Graham?
As the 2024 season progresses, Mason Graham’s goals are clear:
Win a Big Ten title
Compete for the College Football Playoff
Finish the year healthy and dominant
Cement his status as a 1st-round draft pick
His development is one of the most exciting storylines in college football right now. If he continues on this trajectory, there’s no doubt we’ll be seeing him suit up for an NFL team in 2025.
Final thoughts
Mason Graham is more than just a standout defensive tackle—he’s a hard-working, humble, and intelligent player with limitless potential. His unique background, relentless drive, and consistent play make him one of the most exciting names in college football today. With the 2025 NFL Draft on the horizon, all eyes will be on him as he continues to dominate the trenches at Michigan.
For more stories on rising stars in sports, check out our latest features at leedsjournal.co.uk and liverpoolreporter.co.uk.
FAQs
Who is Mason Graham?
Mason Graham is a defensive tackle for the Michigan Wolverines. He’s known for his power, quickness, and technical skill on the defensive line.
What year is Mason Graham in college?
As of the 2024 season, Mason Graham is in his junior year at the University of Michigan.
Is Mason Graham entering the NFL Draft?
He is eligible for the 2025 NFL Draft and is currently projected as a potential first-round pick.
What high school did Mason Graham attend?
Graham attended Servite High School in Anaheim, California, where he also wrestled competitively.
Why is Mason Graham getting so much attention?
His performance on the field, especially as an under-recruited freshman who quickly became a star, has drawn national attention from fans, analysts, and NFL scouts alike.
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