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Patriots Mock Draft Has Questionable Selection at Fourth Overall

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Matthew Sullivan | Last updated Apr 11, 2025 3:29 PM ET

The New England Patriots are hoping to get one of Abdul Carter or Travis Hunter in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft at fourth overall. With the likelihood that both won't be there, the other options available have to be considered. In a new mock draft, the Patriots add a defensive lineman at a position of strength.

In a new mock draft from Gennaro Filice, Deputy Editor of Written Content at NFL.com, the Patriots select Michigan Wolverines defensive tackle Mason Graham at fourth overall.

Graham would be a questionable pick for the Patriots to make. With Milton Williams signed to a new $104 million deal, and Christian Barmore still on the roster, the move for Graham wouldn't be for an immediate starter.

Filice makes the point that with the uncertainty surrounding Barmore's health, recurring systems from blood clots, the Patriots could still look to add a defensive tackle in the draft.

Graham coming to New England would create one of the best defensive tackle rooms in the NFL. It would also provide insurance in case Barmore isn't able to continue playing football consistently as he's dealing with a serious health issue.

While the more is questionable for what the Patriots have on the roster, Graham the player is a very promising prospect according to various NFL Scouts and Draft Analysts.

In 2024, Graham was named a first-team All-American by the Associated Press. He was also named first-team All-Big Ten and was a finalist for the Bednarik Award. In 12 games, Graham had 45 tackles, seven tackles for loss, and three and a half sacks.

Graham was also productive in 2023, winning the National Championship with Michigan while being named first-team All-Big Ten. He finished 2023 with 36 tackles, seven and a half for loss, and three sacks.

The Junior defensive tackle would be a questionable pick for New England only due to the positional overlap with their big free-agent acquisition. But, in the event that Barmore has limited time, the Patriots adding Graham could be a huge addition to the defense.

New England selects fourth overall, which is the beginning of the range for Graham on draft night. The 2025 NFL Draft starts on Thursday, April 24th.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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