MassLive is spotlighting the four most realistic prospects for the Patriots to consider with the No. 4 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. If the team decides not to trade down, these are the most plausible options under Mike Vrabel’s leadership.
Mason Graham, DT, Michigan
In a draft loaded with standout defensive linemen, Graham stands out as the premier defensive tackle of the 2025 class. A First-Team All-American, the 21-year-old tallied 45 tackles, seven tackles for loss, and 3.5 sacks last season. He had both a Combine meeting and a pre-draft visit with the Patriots, signaling mutual interest.
Why this pick could work:
New England is short on elite-level talent. Rather than drafting for need, the smartest move might be to take the best overall player at No. 4. With top prospects like Travis Hunter and Abdul Carter likely off the board, Graham becomes a logical next choice.
He has the potential to start immediately and evolve into a disruptive interior pass rusher. NFL.com compares him to Christian Wilkins. Lining him up alongside Milton Williams and Christian Barmore could turn New England’s defensive front into a major strength. That would address a critical issue, the Patriots ranked dead last in sacks (28) and were 23rd in run defense (131.4 yards/game) last season.
Graham brings intensity, toughness (he’s a former wrestler), and versatility across the defensive line. Drafting him would give the team arguably the third-best positional talent in this class—something a roster lacking star power can’t overlook.
Adding depth is also important, especially with questions around Barmore’s availability due to blood clots. Graham would provide insurance and stability for the defensive tackle group moving forward.
But there’s a counterargument.
The Patriots already invested heavily in the position Williams inked a 4-year, $104 million deal, and Barmore received a 4-year, $84 million extension. With their two highest-paid players being defensive tackles, is it wise to draft another one?
Graham’s pass-rushing production in college also raises questions. Despite comparisons to Wilkins and Aaron Donald, his college stats don’t quite measure up. He only managed 3.5 sacks last year and nine total over three seasons. His size is another concern listed at 320 pounds at Michigan, he dropped to 296 at the Combine.
Given the team’s numerous roster holes, and the fact that they’ve already added veteran defensive help like Williams, Harold Landry, Carlton Davis, Robert Spillane, and Khyiris Tonga, using such a high pick on another defensive lineman could further delay the offense’s development.
Bottom line: With rookie quarterback Drake Maye needing support, using the No. 4 pick on a defensive tackle especially one with modest college production might not be the best way to help him succeed.
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