The Cleveland Browns’ front office has once again proven its strategic prowess in the 2025 NFL Draft, shocking analysts with their Michigan DT Mason Graham fifth overall selection. After trading down from the coveted No. 2 spot, GM Andrew Berry executed what now appears to be a masterfully orchestrated plan months in the making.
Few connected the dots between Cleveland’s quiet March decision to release veteran DT Dalvin Tomlinson and their draft day maneuvers. The Post-June 1 designation on Tomlinson’s release freed up $6.45 million in cap space while absorbing a manageable dead cap hit, creating essential financial flexibility that has now paid dividends.
Cleveland’s Calculated Release of Dalvin Tomlinson Sets Up a Surprise Draft Move for Michigan DT Mason Graham
Tomlinson’s departure after just two seasons into his four-year $57 million contract initially seemed puzzling. During his tenure in Cleveland, the veteran defensive tackle recorded six sacks and 54 tackles, with 10 resulting in losses. His steady presence had provided much-needed stability to a defensive line anchored by Myles Garrett.
No. 5 pick is in: The #Browns have selected Michigan DT Mason Graham, per sources. pic.twitter.com/CjQLHDmxPd
— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) April 25, 2025
What appeared to be a purely financial decision has become part of a broader vision. By creating additional cap space and boosting their total to over $19 million, the Browns positioned themselves for both short—and long-term success in preparing for a draft strategy that would fundamentally reshape their defensive front.
The 21-year-old Graham arrives in Cleveland with impressive credentials as a two-time first-team All-Big Ten performer who anchored Michigan’s national championship defense in 2023. His collegiate production speaks volumes: 9.0 sacks and 17 tackles for loss across 39 games with the Wolverines.
Graham’s selection aligns perfectly with the Browns’ defensive priorities and demonstrates the front office’s strategic approach to the draft. The pick addresses a critical need on the interior defensive line while maximizing the value obtained from their original draft position.
This selection represents the latest step in defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz’s culture shift. The Browns moved decisively on draft night, submitting their selection card for Graham so quickly that it arrived before the Patriots’ fourth overall pick had even been officially announced.
IT’S DRAFT NIGHT: Top 300 Prospects — Get Your Free Printable 2025 NFL Draft Big Board
The Michigan standout joins a revitalized defensive unit that has seen strategic additions over the past two seasons. The Browns believe Graham’s ability to penetrate the interior will create new opportunities for Garrett, who recorded a career high 89 pressures in 2024 despite seeing his sack numbers decline late in the season.
The complete trade package acquiring the No. 5 pick, a 2026 first-rounder, plus second—and fourth-round selections in this year’s draft may ultimately prove to be Berry’s most impressive feat as general manager.
What seemed like a simple cap-clearing move with Tomlinson has transformed into a cornerstone acquisition that could define Cleveland’s defense for years to come.
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