The Missouri Tigers continue to make noise in the transfer portal, this time bolstering their secondary with the addition of Ole Miss cornerback Chris Graves Jr. It’s a move that speaks volumes about where head coach Eli Drinkwitz and his staff are focusing their energy this offseason - and it’s clear the cornerback room is a top priority.
Graves isn’t just another name in the mix. He arrives in Columbia as the most experienced of a strong group of incoming defensive backs that includes Jahlil Florence (Oregon), Elijah Dotson (Michigan), and Sione Laulea (Oregon). While each brings promise, Graves brings production - and that’s a big deal for a Missouri defense looking to tighten things up on the back end.
A Proven SEC Veteran
Graves spent three seasons in the SEC trenches with Ole Miss, appearing in 41 games - a significant number that shows he’s not just been around but has seen consistent action. During that span, he totaled 61 tackles, forced two fumbles, and broke up seven passes.
That last stat gets even more interesting when you realize nearly half of those breakups came in one of the biggest games of his career - the College Football Playoff Semifinal loss to Miami (FL). In a game loaded with NFL-caliber talent, Graves stood out with three pass deflections, showing he can rise to the occasion when the spotlight is brightest.
Where He Fits in Columbia
Missouri’s cornerback room is suddenly a crowded - and competitive - place. But Graves walks in with a clear edge: battle-tested SEC experience.
He’s not a developmental project or a player you stash for the future. He’s a plug-and-play guy who can step in and start from Day 1.
That’s especially important for a team that’s bringing in several new faces at the position. While Florence, Dotson, and Laulea all bring intriguing upside, Graves offers something different - a proven track record. He’s the kind of player who can stabilize the secondary while the younger or less experienced pieces find their footing.
And let’s not overlook the fact that he was once a four-star, top-150 national recruit. The talent has always been there. Now, with one season of eligibility remaining, he’s got every reason to make it count.
Why It Matters
Last season, Missouri’s secondary had its moments - but consistency was an issue. The unit gave up too many big plays and lacked the kind of lockdown presence that can flip a game.
That’s why this offseason has been so cornerback-heavy. It’s not just about depth; it’s about changing the identity of the defense.
With Graves leading the charge, that transformation feels a lot more realistic. He brings a mix of experience, physicality, and poise that’s hard to teach. And in a conference where every week features NFL-level receivers, having a guy who’s been through the fire matters.
If things click, this revamped cornerback group could go from a question mark to one of the defense’s biggest strengths. And if Graves plays to his potential, he won’t just be a starter - he could be a tone-setter for the entire unit.
In a transfer class filled with potential, Chris Graves Jr. brings something even more valuable: proven production. And for a Missouri team looking to take the next step, that could make all the difference.