Two Michigan stars projected as Top-5 picks in 2025 NFL mock draft

The 33rd Team released a way-too-early 2025 NFL mock draft, with not one, but TWO Michigan Wolverines in the top-five, and one going No. 1 overall:

The 33rd Team released the first eight picks of its way-too-early 2025 NFL Mock Draft , and Michigan football is well-represented with two of its most notable playmakers predicted to be among the top-five taken.

Defensive tackle Mason Graham is projected as the first overall selection by the Carolina Panthers , while cornerback Will Johnson is slotted at No. 5 to the Tennessee Titans .

Graham’s potential to be the top pick should come as a surprise to a total of zero Michigan fans. The 6-foot-3, 320-pounder has been a dominant presence at the center of Michigan’s defense since his first rotational snaps as a freshman. His ability to get into the backfield, stop the run and apply pressure on the quarterback has made him one of the premier defensive players in college football. For the Carolina Panthers, selecting Graham first overall would provide them with a foundational piece to build their defense around for the future.

For Johnson, the sky is truly the limit. He has become a key player in Michigan’s secondary thanks to his exceptional coverage abilities. His mix of size, speed and instincts enables him to effectively challenge and neutralize top receivers. His skill in reading the quarterback, anticipating plays, and making critical defensive moves has set him apart as one of the nation’s best at his position.

For the Titans, adding Johnson would significantly enhance a secondary that could desperately use the Detroit native’s services. Johnson’s ability to excel in both man and zone coverage, coupled with his physical approach to the game, makes him an ideal candidate for an NFL team in need of a lockdown corner. Johnson’s knack for shutting down elite receivers would bring a much-needed boost to Tennessee’s defensive backfield.

With the college football regular season two weeks away, both Graham and Johnson are poised to play pivotal roles for the Michigan defense — hopefully leading the Wolverines to another successful campaign while cementing their status as top NFL prospects.