As the 2025 NFL Draft draws near, teams across the league are finalizing their draft boards, and the Las Vegas Raiders, holding the sixth overall selection, are diligently evaluating top prospects to ensure their first-round pick significantly enhances their chances of winning.
In their pre-draft preparations, the Raiders are scheduled to meet with one of the most highly regarded defensive players in the 2025 class: University of Michigan defensive tackle Mason Graham. ESPN Senior NFL Insider Adam Schefter reported, “Michigan DT Mason Graham is visiting the Browns on Monday, then the Raiders on Tuesday.”
Las Vegas Raiders Meeting With Michigan DT Mason Graham Ahead Of NFL Draft
Graham is widely considered to be among the premier defensive talents available, potentially the best defensive lineman in this year’s draft. While his skill set warrants a top selection, the quarterback needs of teams drafting ahead of the Raiders could lead to Graham falling outside the top five, presenting Las Vegas with an opportunity to secure him with the sixth pick.
Graham’s abilities align well with defensive coordinator Patrick Graham’s defensive scheme. He possesses the versatility to pressure the quarterback and effectively disrupt the run game by clogging up the middle of the defensive line. Joining a defensive front already featuring star defensive end Maxx Crosby, Graham’s addition would create a formidable challenge for opposing offenses. Furthermore, Graham would have the opportunity to learn and develop alongside veteran defensive tackle Christian Wilkins, who the Raiders signed last offseason.
The Athletic’s Dane Brugler ranks Graham as the 4th best prospect and top defensive tackle in the draft, writing, “Graham naturally plays from a low position, which helps him score consistent wins in leverage through contact — he credits his championship-level wrestling background for his athletic twitch and understanding of angles. He does need to develop his efficiency against doubles, but he violently sheds single blocks and plays the piano up and down the line with outstanding chase effort.”
The acquisition of a player of Graham’s caliber could transform the Raiders’ defensive front into one of the league’s most dominant. Given their flexibility at the No. 6 spot, it would not be surprising to see the Raiders capitalize on the opportunity to draft Mason Graham.