In the latest 2025 NFL Mock Draft, the New Orleans Saints are projected to select Michigan’s standout interior defensive lineman, Mason Graham, to bolster their defense. Currently, the Saints face key decisions, including addressing an aging roster and lacking a strong defensive identity, making Graham an attractive prospect to build around.
**Mason Graham’s Background and Stats**
Graham, a junior at Michigan, has shown impressive performance as an interior defensive lineman, though his contributions aren’t always obvious in standard statistics. In his first two years, he accumulated 62 tackles and 5.5 sacks. So far in his third season, he’s on track for career highs, recording 33 tackles, seven tackles for loss, and 3.5 sacks in nine games. His impact on the field goes beyond numbers, as his ability to disrupt plays and his quickness make him a force in Michigan’s defense.
**Scouting Graham’s Strengths and Areas to Improve**
Graham’s strengths include his quick first step off the line, allowing him to penetrate past blockers effectively. He’s tough at the line of scrimmage and can handle poorly executed blocks with ease, showcasing solid weight control and balance. His primary area for improvement involves developing a broader variety of pass-rush moves and maintaining low pad levels, which will enhance his effectiveness against the run and make him even tougher to block.
**Why Graham Fits with the Saints**
With defensive end Cameron Jordan nearing the end of his contract and the team committed to quarterback Derek Carr for the foreseeable future, the Saints need to strengthen their defense to maximize their competitiveness. Adding Graham alongside Bryan Bresee would help form a younger, more effective defensive line, filling a critical need and building toward a cohesive defensive identity. This would address the Saints’ current struggles in stopping the run, ranking among the NFL’s bottom ten in rush defense.
Given the Saints’ 4-3 defensive scheme, Graham’s flexibility makes him a good fit, as he can play both one and three-technique positions and even shift outside on running plays if more size is needed on one side. His short arm length may limit him in pass rush situations initially, but mentorship from veterans like Jordan could refine his technique.
**Final Take on the Potential Pick**
Graham presents a valuable, long-term asset for the Saints, meeting a pressing need in the defensive line. With the Saints likely committed to Carr for now, opting for Graham in the draft would allow them to focus on defensive strength while awaiting future quarterback classes. Building a strong defensive foundation with Graham would provide stability and set up a formidable line for years, aligning well with the team’s future strategy.
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