Cleveland Browns Draft Mauling Defensive Tackle Mason Graham with Pick 5

The Cleveland Browns stay busy in the 2025 NFL Draft and trade back, taking Michigan defensive tackle Mason Graham with the 5th selection. They go best player available on defense and bolster their defensive line, as the Browns have needed a solid running mate to Myles Garrett. Graham can be an enforcer in the middle of the defense and provide pass rush, while being a disruptor in the run game. Cleveland also has ammunition to potentially trade up for their quarterback of the future later.

Cleveland Browns Draft Mason Graham with Pick 5

The 21-year-old defensive tackle was heralded at Michigan as a Wolverine. The junior was an impactful player for three seasons and will be an anchor for their defensive line. He had nine career sacks, but with Garrett taking double teams off the edge, Graham should see a few one-on-one looks.

The defensive tackle had a quiet process, but the Browns stayed quiet, moved back, and secured their defensive lineman of the future to play with a veteran x-factor like Garrett. Graham had 18 tackles for loss, a forced fumble, plus three pass deflections to go along with 60 solo tackles. He was a leader for Michigan, competing in National Championships and the College Football Playoffs for multiple years.

Final Thoughts

While everyone thought Travis Hunter was in play at two before trading down, this was the next best thing. Especially in the AFC North, competing against Joe Burrow and Lamar Jackson. At 6’3″ 296 pounds, Graham can be a stalwart in the middle of their defense and start right away. He was a First-Team AP All-American, All-Big Ten, and was a finalist for the Bednarik Award and Outland Trophy.

The Wolverine will be a playmaker on defense for Cleveland, as they had Maliek Collins and Shelby Harris at defensive tackle. The Browns get a versatile defensive lineman who can create havoc from any spot.