Born in South Shields, Graham began his career with Sheffield United and made three League appearances for the Blades before being released. He also had spell on loan at Scarborough (2 League appearances) before joining Swindon Town. He made three League appearances for the Wiltshire side and five League appearances for Plymouth Argyle before joining Carlisle United. He quickly established himself at Brunton Park and made 69 League appearances for the Cumbrians, scoring three times before he was released in the summer of 2000. He joined Barrow in August 2000 and made his debut that month in a home game with Accrington Stanley. A member of the squad that collected the Chairman's Cup and president's cup in the last two seasons, Graham collected two 'Player of the Year' awards at the end of the 2001-02 season. Graham collected two more "Player of the season" awards last term (2003-04) and was a member of the squad that lifted the Presidents Cup that season.