What will the Vikings’ roster look like for the upcoming season?
Minnesota Vikings rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy could soon be reunited with another Michigan Wolverines difference-maker — defensive tackle Mason Graham.
ESPN released an early 2025 mock draft and predicted the Vikings to select Graham eighth overall.
“Minnesota’s interior defensive line lacks a consistent presence, and Harrison Phillips is entering the final year of his contract,” ESPN’s Jordan Reid wrote. “Graham is a rugged, heavy-handed run defender and disruptive pass-rusher. He had 7.5 tackles for loss and three sacks last season, and he’d fit great with defensive coordinator Brian Flores’ scheme.”
Graham was voted the Wolverines’ Defensive Player of the Game for his performance in a 27-20 overtime victory over Alabama in the Rose Bowl.
While McCarthy was credited as Offensive Player of the Game, it was Graham who came through with a clutch performance.
Facing second-and-goal from the 9-yard line, Graham breached the Crimson Tide’s offensive front and tackled Alabama running back Jase McClellan for a five-yard loss, setting up third-and-14.
Graham was part of one final stop on fourth down that sealed the victory and sent the Wolverines to the national championship game.
ESPN’s mock draft projects Graham to be the top defensive tackle taken in next year’s draft after a stellar sophomore season. It also aligns with the Pro Football Focus (PFF) evaluation of the 20-year-old.