The Wolverine: Covering University of Michigan Football and Sports
Issue link: https://comanpub.uberflip.com/i/1535358
❱ GRAHAM FAMILY SHARES SPECIAL DRAFT NIGHT MOMENT Michigan defensive tackle Mason Graham saw his NFL dream come true on draft night, going No. 5 overall to the Cleveland Browns on April 24. The moment was special for Graham and his family, who have been by his side the whole way. The next day, he and his parents, Allen and Kimberly Graham, along with his grand- mother, Linda Donoso, arrived to a warm welcome at the Browns' facility. The night before, the NFL's social media accounts posted a video of Donoso reading a letter of support to her grandson after his selection, which brought the normally stone-faced Graham to tears. "Your love of football became your passion and your sport of choice," his grand- mother said. "We watched you reach an even higher level in high school. It was so exciting to watch you play both sides of the ball every game. You dazzled the crowd and amazed your family. When your team needed you most, you reached down deep and you came up with a play for the win. "Then onto Michigan, playing as a starter your freshman year and a Big Ten cham- pionship. The MVP of the Rose Bowl your sophomore year, along with Big Ten and national championships. You are loyal, proven, tried and true. You never quit. You are humble. Your intelligence and your work ethic are immeasurable. "You stand by your values and your convictions and our Lord, Jesus. You are dedicated to your family, teammates and friends. Now you are here at the NFL Draft. You're living the ultimate dream. The dream that you and your papa always knew would be a reality, and we are here living it with you. We could not be more proud of you. "Your dad asked me to say something inspirational. Well, you inspire me, Mason. This is your day, my big boy. I'm so proud of you. I love you always, Grandma." Graham, who wiped back tears during the video, said the support has meant the world to him. " She's just like a second mom to me," Graham said. "She's been through a lot, especially when my grandpa passed. She almost lives her life through me. I take pride in that, and I want to just make her proud and my parents. Thanks for always being in my corner and making the time to come see my games and just being there for me." — Anthony Broome THE BIG PICTURE