Regarding the NFL Draft, finding the right defensive anchor can make or break a team’s future. In 2025, one of the biggest risers in the AFC South could be looking to do just that—by landing Michigan’s dominant defensive tackle, Mason Graham. But which AFC South team is eyeing him the most, and how could he change their defensive front for years to come?
Why Mason Graham Is a Coveted Prospect
Standing at 6’4″ and weighing around 315 pounds, Mason Graham was a nightmare for offensive lines during his tenure at Michigan. The former Wolverines standout consistently wreaked havoc in the trenches.
He used his explosive first step and sheer strength to shed blocks and disrupt plays in the backfield. Graham recorded 45 total tackles, 10 tackles for loss, and five sacks in his final season, earning him first-team All-Big Ten honors.
The AFC South has been transforming in recent years, with multiple teams looking to solidify their core talent. While all four teams in the division could use a player of Graham’s caliber, one team stands out as a prime landing spot: the Houston Texans.
Houston Texans: The Perfect Fit?
The Texans have quickly become one of the most exciting young teams in the league. However, their defensive line could use a true interior presence to complement Anderson’s edge-rushing ability.
Graham’s ability to collapse the pocket and shut down the run would make him an ideal addition to the team. Adding Graham to the mix would give Houston a defensive tackle who can demand double-teams, freeing up their edge rushers and linebackers to make plays.
Other AFC South Teams in the Mix
While the Texans are the frontrunners, they’re not the only team that could be looking to draft Graham. Let’s take a quick look at the other AFC South teams that might be interested.
Indianapolis Colts
Adding a young, disruptive tackle like Graham could help extend their dominance in the trenches. Indianapolis has been rebuilding its defense and could see Graham as a long-term investment.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Jacksonville has built a strong defensive core, but its interior line could use reinforcements. Graham’s ability to both stop the run and generate interior pass-rush pressure would help the Jaguars compete with elite offenses in the AFC.
Tennessee Titans
The Titans have been known for their physical style of play, and adding Graham would reinforce their defensive identity. Graham would create one of the most intimidating defensive tackle duos in the NFL with Jeffery Simmons.
A Future Defensive Star in the AFC South?
Houston struggled at times with stopping the run, especially against power backs. Graham’s ability to clog up running lanes and take on double-teams would allow the team to flow freely.
While several teams could benefit from drafting Graham, the Houston Texans appear to be the best fit. With a defensive-minded head coach, a rising young core, and a need for a dominant defensive tackle, the Texans have everything in place to make Graham their next defensive star.
KEEP READING: Michigan DLs Kenneth Grant, Mason Graham Pick Their Signature Games for NFL Scouts
As the draft approaches, all eyes will be on where Graham lands. But if Houston is smart, they won’t let him slip past them because pairing him with Anderson could be the start of something special.
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