Akheem Mesidor Draft Grade | Round 1, Pick 22 | FanVerdicts

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Sentiment

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Fan Verdict

Sentiment Analysis

Scouting Report

Big Board Rank: #20 · 1st Round Talent

Akheem Mesidor transformed from a raw, developmental pass rusher into one of college football's most disruptive edge defenders during his three-year tenure at Miami. Originally recruited as a hybrid linebacker-defensive end, Mesidor added significant bulk while maintaining his explosive first step, evolving into a true three-down edge rusher capable of setting the edge against the run and collapsing the pocket as a pass rusher. His combination of relentless motor, hand fighting technique, and football intelligence makes him an ideal fit for modern NFL defensive schemes. While questions remain about his ability to consistently win against elite offensive tackle talent, his production trajectory and versatility suggest a high floor as a rotational pass rusher with starter upside.

Strengths

+Exceptional hand fighting technique with violent punch that consistently disrupts offensive tackle timing and creates separation for pass rush moves.

+Outstanding motor and effort level that allows him to win reps late in drives when offensive linemen begin to tire or lose focus.

+Versatile pass rush repertoire featuring effective long-arm, rip move, and spin move combinations that keep blockers guessing.

+Elite run defender who sets a strong edge and shows no hesitation attacking downhill against pulling guards or lead blockers.

+High football IQ evident in his ability to diagnose screen plays and bootlegs, often making game-changing plays in space.

+Strong anchor against power rushing attacks, using leverage and hand placement to maintain gap integrity in even-front defenses.

+Excellent closing speed to the quarterback once he achieves separation, rarely allowing signal-callers to escape the pocket.

+Demonstrates leadership qualities and communicates effectively with defensive line unit to identify blocking schemes pre-snap.

+Shows impressive flexibility for his size, able to flatten around the arc and maintain balance through contact.

+Productive in short-yardage situations as an interior rusher, using his quickness advantage over guards to generate pressure up the middle.

+Consistent effort in pursuit, often making tackles 20-30 yards downfield on broken plays or scrambles.

Weaknesses

-Limited bend around the edge prevents him from consistently winning the corner against athletic tackles with good kick-slide technique.

-Occasionally over-pursues running plays, allowing cutback lanes when he fails to maintain gap discipline in pursuit.

-Pass rush plan can become predictable against elite competition, lacking the counter moves necessary to consistently win at the next level.

-Struggles to convert speed to power effectively, often getting stalled by tackles who can mirror his initial rush and stay square.

-Hand placement can be inconsistent, particularly when rushing against longer-armed tackles who can control engagement distance.

-Limited experience dropping into coverage situations, showing stiffness in hips when asked to cover tight ends or running backs.

-Can be susceptible to inside counter moves when he commits too heavily to outside rush lanes.

-Needs to develop more nuanced understanding of when to rush and when to contain mobile quarterbacks in designed rollout concepts.

NFL Comparison: Carl Lawson

Fan voting will be available once grades are published.

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