Unlocking a Super Bowl contender's defense, Akheem Mesidor's game-changing potential ignites the New England Patriots' edge. Can the 25-year-old overcome risks for immediate impact?
The NFL Draft is five days away and the class that features several Miami Hurricanes prospects seeking new homes, including Akheem Mesidor. He’s coming off a career season: 63 total tackles, 38 solos and 25 assists, 17.5 tackles for loss, 12.5 sacks, and four forced fumbles in 15 games started. There is first-round potential, but at 25 years old and with an injury history, it could leave organizations hesitant to select him.
However, to some, Mesidor could play as an immediate factor.
In an ESPN mock draft by analyst Mel Kiper Jr., the Hurricanes prospect is projected to be selected by the New England Patriots with the 31st pick. The team is coming off its first Super Bowl appearance since 2018, but didn’t live up to performing on the big stage, suffering a 29-13 loss to the Seattle Seahawks.
“If the Patriots are comfortable with the durability risk, they could absolutely use his production,” Kiper Jr. wrote. “Their 35 sacks tied for seventh fewest last season, and swapping in Dre'Mont Jones for K'Lavon Chaisson was the team's main change on the edge this offseason. Mesidor could quickly become a feared disrupter in the AFC East.”
Mesidor proved to be a dominant force at the line of scrimmage with edge rusher Rueben Bain Jr. on the other side. He was named First Team All-ACC, Sporting News All-America Second Team, and a finalist for the Ted Hendricks award.
Similar to the Patriots, the Canadian native understands the experience of coming close to football glory but falling short. Mesidor played a significant role in the Hurricanes’ historic College Football Playoff run, reaching the National Championship, but suffering a 27-21 loss to the Indiana Hooisers.
The San Francisco 49ers, Detroit Lions, Chicago Bears, and Patriots met with him at the Scouting Combine in Indianapolis. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are another franchise that has been linked.
Mesidor is described as the “purest pass rusher” in this class. Regardless of age and injury history, numerous franchises would benefit from his services. He developed under defensive line coach and Pro Football Hall of Famer Jason Taylor.
The Patriots need a dominant force at the line of scrimmage. They hardly applied pressure to quarterback Sam Darnold in the Super Bowl.
Mesidor will not be present at the NFL Draft in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He will spend the memorable moment amongst close family in Ottawa, Ontario. Despite not walking the stage, Mesidor will soon enter a new football chapter.
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