Defensive tackle continues to rise to prominence as a major target spot in the NFL draft. The impacts they can have on all three downs are infectious. The way they help the quarterback move from the middle of the pocket, Teams look for that privilege. That’s why in the recent draft predictions, the DT crops up as one of the deepest needs in the premium. In this year’s draft class, there has been a flurry of explosive defensive tackles who can step up and win the games for the Chargers. Jim Harbaugh might consider pitching for his former guy from Ann Arbor to bolster their radiant defense.

For the Los Angeles Chargers, the 2024 season was a banger under Jim Harbaugh. The defense overachieved. They allowed the fewest points (301) while ranking 11th in yards allowed. They realized their vision for the offense can continue to succeed with Justin Herbert and Ladd McConkey, provided they continue to build around the two. However, despite having faith in their existing defensive depth, which helped them go to a massive 11-6, Harbaugh needs some help. They have a long list of players who hit the free agency in the new league year. Impact players like Morgan Fox, Poona Ford, Teair Tart, and Khalil Mack have gone for good, leaving the tight-knit defense to a rather unpredictable future. Harbaugh needs to stabilize the void as a priority. Also, after losing Joey Bosa to the Bills, they need a star player on the D-line.

Who can be that crown jewel on the defensive side of the ball? Well, someone who’s greatly familiar with Jim Harbaugh’s system, hopes, and aspirations. Can you smell Mason Graham, the one who received the coveted title of ‘a gift from the football gods’ by Harbaugh? Well, not a bad jolt to the mind! Todd McShay added fuel to the fire, asking Harbaugh and his staff to pay a serious heed to the 320 lbs junior tackle.  “Mason Graham has been going five to Jacksonville forever. Right,” said Todd. Steve Muench chimed in: “I like that pick by the way. Yeah, I like your thought about the coaching staff, by the way, that makes complete sense to me.”

Graham was instrumental in leading the Wolverines to the national championship win a year back. A completely balanced athleticism with no major deficiencies has been his biggest flex. He can fiercely chase the ball carriers with sheer control of his body and overall run coordination. He has been a disruptive pass rusher. Thanks to his high motor and aggressive play style. Just as his former head coach would like. Chargers might not have to regret putting money on him. “Jets have been, Membou and or Warren forever. Maybe it’s (Graham) a defensive player, Jacksonville, think about it. Jacksonville, at five, has been looking up. I bet you, nine out of ten, mock drafts out there are Mason Graham.” Todd McShay sent his message across the board, straight and clear.

However, Graham’s rise to the NFL realm as one of the most sellable players in the defense isn’t a fluke. Rather, it carries a solid testament to his years of hard work and grit that his former high school coach still respects.

Mason Graham’s high school antics paved the way for his pro fate

It’s not just Harbaugh who was head over heels with the 6 ft 3 giant defensive anchor. He has been the apple of his mentors’ eyes since high school. He couldn’t tower over his peers when honing his craft early at Servite High, a private school in Southern California… The boy next door was an average presence in the locker room, with an average size, mobility, and speed.

But what made him stand apart was his determination to be the best. “He was 6-feet, maybe 210 pounds as a (high school) freshman… just kept working in the weight room. He also wrestled, which I think helped him become tougher and stronger,” then-Servite coach Troy Thomas said. Eventually, he became one of the top disruptors in the nation. Graham capped off his senior season with 14 sacks. He then stepped into Ann Arbor to attend Michigan’s spring practice.

“I’m not surprised at the impact he’s making. But I was a little surprised at how quickly he started playing once he got to Michigan,” Thomas stroked at nostalgia. “It’s a credit to him.”  Graham’s shift to Michigan from a blazing high school career was evident. Now, a similar theory rationalized his upcoming transition to the pro. It’s safe to say his draft future will be as astonishing as his collegiate glory, if not more.