This is a different selection for sure.
The Minnesota Vikings have been mocked relentlessly with an incoming safety at pick 18. It makes sense with Harrison Smith's future up in the air, but what if Minnesota addressed its pass rush? A Miami EDGE rusher could be the answer, but it may not be the player you're thinking of.
Rueben Bain, Jr. has some off-the-field issues that have popped up. However, it's doubtful he falls to number 18 for Minnesota. What if the player at 18 is Akheem Mesidor?
Mesidor was unguardable in the national championship game against Indiana and their stout offensive line. The age factor is a bit concerning, considering his second contract will kick in at age 30. At 25 years old, Mesidor is experienced and ready to contribute on Sundays.
Bryant McFadden of CBS Sports selected Mesidor for Minnesota at pick 18.
"Minnesota needs a pass rush in a division full of high-end QBs, and Mesidor fits Brian Flores' style. When you're facing Jordan Love, Jared Goff, and Caleb Williams, defensive pressure is a must."
Lance Zierlein of NFL.com compares Mesidor to current Viking Jonathan Greenard.
"Mesidor is an instinctive, high-effort edge rusher with a fluid rush style and a deep toolbox. He bursts upfield and can shrink the corner while punishing oversetting tackles with inside counters. He strings moves together with effortless mid-rush adjustments, utilizing harmonious hands and feet to carve efficient tracks into the pocket. He’s a problem for guards when reduced inside, too. His urgency shows up in run defense, where he uses play strength and short-area quickness to disrupt blocking schemes and stay around the football. He won’t be as long as most edge-setters and his anchor at the point is just average. The talent and motor are obvious, but his age and injury history could push some teams to discount his grade below what the tape shows."
Matt Holder of Bleacher Report highlights how Mesidor wins.
- Mesidor is a good overall athlete who is quick and has impressive change-of-direction skills to beat offensive tackles across their faces as a pass-rusher.
- Solid at setting up his pass rush moves by stemming to one direction and using his movement skills to win in on the other side of the offensive lineman.
- Very good use of hands as a pass-rusher, he has active hands and has shown the ability to consistently "beat the hands to beat the man". This allows him to have effective double-hand swipe and cross chop moves.
- Also has shown a solid bull to rip move and a non-stop pass-rush motor, constantly working counter moves if he doesn't win initially.
- Good bend at the top of the rush to corner and take efficient paths to the quarterback.
- Can be an effective looper on line game with his athleticism and bend.
- Has shown the ability to beat guards and offensive tackles as a pass-rusher, giving him some inside/outside versatility on third downs.