How do you feel about the Chargers adding Akheem Mesidor?
The Los Angeles Chargers selected Miami edge rusher Akheem Mesidor with the 22nd overall pick. Mesidor is a day-one, impactful starter who uses his refined pass rush moves, high motor, and explosiveness to consistently pressure the quarterback. He will pair with Tuli Tuipulotu and Khalil Mack to form a dangerous defensive line for the Chargers. This article will go in-depth about him as a prospect and his fit on the team, so fans can know what they’re getting.
Mesidor’s calling card is his chaotic pass-rush nature. He bursts off the line with his rapid acceleration and keeps that momentum throughout the play. He’s a constant threat to win with speed around the edge. Additionally, his never-ending violent hand usage makes it challenging for opposing linemen to grab him. This causes Mesidor to lose limited speed in his rush, which makes the blocker quickly fall behind.
While Mesidor’s still developing as a run defender, the tools are there to become an every-down run stuffer. As mentioned above, his quickness makes it challenging for blockers to reach his chest. This helps him frequently split blocks and instantly penetrate the backfield. He needs to get stronger and develop a better anchor, but those both can be fixed with coaching.
Mesidor’s at his best when the lights shine brightest. This was exemplified during Miami’s College Football Playoff run, where he totalled 5.5 sacks and 23 pressures in his four games. Similarly, in their biggest regular-season game against Notre Dame, he racked up 1.5 sacks. This is a huge ability for the Chargers as they seek to contend in the AFC.
Mesidor’s extensive collegiate experience can be seen both as a positive and a negative. From one perspective, it’s great because he’s had time to develop an arsenal of pass rush moves. Additionally, he’s seen everything an offense has, which is evident with his IQ. Conversely, he’s a 25-year-old rookie who may not be a franchise cornerstone. However, with the Chargers’ current situation, fans should be mostly positive. They are a verge-contender who needs talent, which Mesidor supplies.
Fit-wise, Mesidor is ideal on the Chargers’ defensive line. Some analysts will question whether he can be the sole threat, but this won’t ever be the case. Defenses will key in on Tuli Tuipolutu and Khalil Mack, which give him one-on-one looks, where he thrives.
Overall, Akheem Mesidor was a fantastic selection for the Chargers. He’s an older prospect, but his pass rushing prowess, chaotic nature, and fit next to Tuipolutu and Mack make him a perfect fit. Fans should be ecstatic about the team’s future and its potential to become a contender in the AFC.