Akheem Mesidor

Draft Projection

Measurements

Athletic Testing

College Statistics

Scouting Report

Intriguing pass-rusher at 6'3", 265 lbs with the best bag of pass rush moves among edge players, seamlessly sequencing swipes, arm-overs, cross chops, club-rips, bull rushes, push-pulls, and swims. A natural disruptor whose pressure production is not scheme-dependent; will be an older rookie turning 25 on April 5. Extensive injury history involving surgeries on both feet at two programs is a significant concern.

Player Comparison

Strengths

• Explosive first step allows him to consistently penetrate the backfield - made 10.5 TFLs in 2022
• Versatile defender capable of lining up at multiple positions along the defensive front, increasing his value in various schemes
• Demonstrates excellent hand usage and leverage, allowing him to shed blocks effectively and maintain gap integrity
• High motor player who pursues plays relentlessly, often making tackles downfield or on the opposite side of the formation
• Showcases good bend and flexibility for his size, enabling him to turn the corner as an edge rusher
• Strong football IQ, as seen in his ability to diagnose plays quickly and react accordingly
• Proven production against high-level competition in both the Big 12 and ACC conferences
• Disruptive in the passing game beyond sacks, with multiple passes batted down at the line of scrimmage

Areas to Improve

• Slightly undersized for an interior defensive lineman at the NFL level, which may limit his effectiveness against double teams
• Injury history is a concern, having missed most of the 2023 season due to an undisclosed injury
• Can occasionally get washed out of plays when facing larger, more powerful offensive linemen
• Sometimes relies too heavily on his initial burst, leading to over-pursuit and creating running lanes
• Needs to develop a more diverse array of pass-rush moves to consistently beat NFL-caliber offensive linemen