The New York Giants have plenty of needs heading into the 2025 NFL Draft, but one name in particular is drawing attention as the perfect fit for Big Blue—Michigan defensive tackle Mason Graham.
According to Bleacher Report’s Brent Sobleski, Graham is the ideal match for the Giants, giving them a three-down monster on the defensive line to pair with Dexter Lawrence. New York’s defense was gashed in the run game last season, and Graham’s ability to dominate in the trenches would be a game-changer for a unit that desperately needs reinforcements.
With the third overall pick in the draft, most speculation has revolved around whether the Giants will take a quarterback or trade down. But if they prioritize defense, Graham could be the type of instant-impact player who helps turn things around quickly.
New York is the best landing spot for Mason Graham
Bleacher Report’s scouting report on Graham paints him as a rare three-down defensive tackle who can wreck games at the point of attack:
“Few defensive tackles have the ability to consistently deal with the mass of humanity they're forced to take on, defend the run at a high level and still be explosive enough to make life miserable on opposing quarterbacks. Graham is one of those people.”
That’s exactly what the Giants need. Lawrence is already one of the best interior defensive linemen in football, but New York has struggled to find him a reliable running mate. Adding Graham would give the Giants a dominant one-two punch up front, making life easier for the linebackers behind them and setting the tone for a more physical, aggressive defense.
At Michigan, Graham showcased a unique blend of strength, explosiveness, and relentless motor. He’s not just a space-eater—he’s a playmaker. He’d be unleashed as a gap-shooting disruptor, exactly the type of player who could flourish in New York alongside Lawrence.
If the Giants don’t take a quarterback with their top pick, Graham has to be in the conversation. He’s one of the best defensive players in the class, and his skill set would immediately make New York’s defensive line one of the best in the league.
Of course, positional value comes into play. Would the Giants really take a defensive tackle over a pass rusher or an offensive weapon? That remains to be seen. But if Schoen and Daboll want to build a team that wins in the trenches, adding Graham to Lawrence might be too good to pass up.
The Giants need difference-makers, and Graham fits the bill. If they’re serious about rebuilding the defense into a dominant force, this could be a match made in football heaven.