First-round pick Akheem Mesidor is silencing critics of his age, utilizing an elite first step and veteran maturity to dominate practices and bolster the Bolts' pass rush.
The Los Angeles Chargers are entering the stretch run of the offseason as preseason is set to start next week. One Chargers rookie is emerging as a key player and a potential force for the team.
Former Miami Hurricanes edge rusher Akheem Mesidor took flack for his extended time in college as a super senior. Mesidor was one of the oldest players selected in this year's 2026 NFL draft. Still, that experience made him a game ready defensive lineman for the upcoming season. It's showing up in training camp.
While we cannot draw any real conclusions on what he can do until he takes the field for the preseason and regular season, he has apparently shown out in practice per reports.
Thomas Martinez of Los Angeles Chargers on SI discussed the rookie's offseason to date. Martinez labeled Mesidor as a winner of the first few practices of training camp. Here's some of what he had to write on the budding star.
"First-round picks carry expectations when they walk into their first taste of NFL action. Akheem Mesidor is thriving in his first NFL camp. His play will not be able to be fully evaluated until they practice in pads but his traits have been on full display.
Mesidor was known as an edge rusher with an elite first step off of the ball and that trait has been popping through the first week of camp. He is an older rookie but the maturity and work ethic he has displayed, while Tuli Tuipulotu is holding in for a new contract, has garnered the respect of coaches and teammates. His explosiveness off the ball will be counted on by the Chargers pass rush this season."
Jul 30, 2026; El Segundo, CA, USA; Los Angeles Chargers linebacker Akheem Mesidor (90) at training camp at The Bolt. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn ImagesFair or not, Mesidor's first round worthiness may come down to how soon he can perform at a high level. At 25, the Chargers are likely hoping for a guy who can play right away and win reps against top competition.
Mesidor may not have many years to expend, but he could still play eight or more years if he sustains peak performance. The real question is how soon he can get there.
The Chargers may not ask Mesidor to start right away, but it's possible he will be able to if called upon this year. We will continue to monitor Mesidor's progress as the preseason progresses.
Los Angeles will start its preseason campaign against the Houston Texans next week.
