Panthers likely to draft Michigan DT Mason Graham

NFL free agency is shaping the future of several teams as they prepare for the upcoming draft. The Seattle Seahawks made a significant move by signing Sam Darnold to fill their quarterback position. Meanwhile, the New York Jets have acquired Justin Fields to boost their roster. One of the most notable free agent signings has been Milton Williams, a defensive lineman previously with the Philadelphia Eagles. He has signed a four-year deal worth $104 million with the New England Patriots. This move strengthens the Patriots’ defense under head coach Mike Vrabel. However, it disappointed fans of the Carolina Panthers, who were also interested in Williams. In response to this development, NFL Draft analyst Daniel Jeremiah speculated that the Panthers will target a defensive tackle in the first round of the upcoming draft. He predicts they will select Mason Graham from Michigan with the eighth overall pick. Jeremiah believes Graham could significantly improve the Panthers' struggling defense, which ranked last in yards and points allowed last season. Though the Panthers lost edge rusher Brian Burns, adding Graham could help their pass rush by working alongside Derrick Brown. Graham, a standout player, was a unanimous All-American in 2024 and recorded impressive stats, including 45 tackles and 3.5 sacks. His addition could be a key step towards building a stronger defensive line for the Panthers.