Ole Miss cornerback Chris Graves Jr. has set high goals for the 2025 college football season, naming All-American honors and the Jim Thorpe Award as his primary targets. Entering his third year in Oxford, Graves transferred to Ole Miss in 2023 after starting his collegiate career at Miami.
Graves credited defensive coordinator Pete Golding’s system as a major factor in his decision to join the Rebels. When asked about why he chose Ole Miss, Graves said, “I would say the defense (…) Pete Golding played a big role in that. I just want to be part of a defense that was together, and a defensive coordinator who has a history of sending guys to the right place.” The statement reflects his confidence in Golding’s approach and reputation.
Last season, Graves participated in all 13 games and contributed over 300 snaps on defense. His role is expected to be significant again this year, as head coach Lane Kiffin has recently indicated improvements within the secondary.
Speaking about his personal goals for the upcoming season, Graves stated, “First off, All-American. The Jim Thorpe Award, those are the two on my mind.” If successful in earning the Jim Thorpe Award—given annually to college football’s top defensive back—Graves would become the first player from Ole Miss to receive that honor.
Ole Miss will begin its season against Georgia State on Aug. 30 at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium.
