Wolverine Digest

NFL Draft analyst praises Mason Graham's 'violent hands'

Mason Graham was the topic of discussion on CBS Sports and NFL expert Kevin Carter had high praise for the defensive lineman
Jerred Johnson|
Michigan defensive lineman Mason Graham (DL11) Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Michigan defensive lineman Mason Graham (DL11) Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

The Michigan Wolverines are positioned to make some noise in the first round of this year's NFL Draft. Experts have slotted at least four players firmly in that first round, including Will Johnson, Mason Graham, Kenneth Grant and Coston Loveland.

Of those four prospects, only one has not moved much in the eyes of draft experts. While Johnson, Loveland and Grant have slid up and down mock draft boards, Graham has remained a consistent in the top seven pick range. Some analysts have called him a "can't miss" prospect and the surest pick of the 2025 NFL Draft. On a recent CBS Sports show, NFL expert Kevin Carter had some very high praise for Graham.

Carter, who played in the NFL as a defensive lineman for 14 seasons, claims he looks for two things in defensive lineman. Those two things are "violent hands and a wrestling background". Graham possesses the wrestling background, and as the game tape played behind Carter, it became evident he also possesses those violent hands.

Graham used his hands and explosive power to blow offensive linemen off the ball and, at times, ended up in the backfield so fast opposing quarterbacks had no option but to fall on the ball for a loss.

His ability to move and finesse his way around bigger linemen is a testament to his wrestling background. Carter was very impressed with Graham's body of work and sees him as a potential top five pick in this year's draft. Michigan fans can attest to the explosive violent nature Graham utilizes on the field; he will be an All-Pro caliber player for years to come in the NFL, that is almost certain.

Graham
Michigan defensive lineman Mason Graham (55) | Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

- Enjoy more Michigan Wolverines coverage on Michigan Wolverines On SI -

More Michigan News:

2 Michigan football players make top-150 list heading into the 2025 season

Michigan basketball falls in way-too-early top 25 after landing massive transfer haul

Michigan Football: The No. 1 overall pick in Michigan Football's Spring Game is revealed

For additional coverage of University of Michigan athletics:

Published
Jerred Johnson
JERRED JOHNSON

Jerred Johnson has served in the United States military for over 23 years. He has a Bachelors in Marketing, a Masters in Management and is in the final phases of completing his Doctorate in Business Administration.

Home/Football