Akheem Mesidor Scouting Report

Here's everything NFL Draft fans need to know about Miami edge defender Akheem Mesidor:

Height: 6-3

Weight: 280

Age: 24

Strengths

Mesidor has rare explosiveness for a heavier edge player, firing off the ball and sending offensive tackles scrambling to match his get-off. That first step wins him a ton of reps, and with his wide frame, he’s able to hold his ground and shield the blocker while turning the corner to the quarterback. He can use his size just as often to execute effective bull rushes, driving tackles back into the quarterback’s lap and disrupting the pocket, even if he doesn’t come away with the sack. He sets a strong edge against the run, using powerful hands at the point of attack to stack and shed blocks, leaving himself free to make tackles. Mesidor is a smart player who knows how to decipher blocking schemes and put himself in the best position to make plays, and his motor never stops running at full speed. 

Weaknesses

He’s been highly productive as a pass rusher with both speed and power, but Mesidor still leans heavily on his physical traits to win every rep. He’ll need to develop a more technical approach at the next level, as NFL blockers will challenge him to add more intricate pass-rushing moves to his repertoire. Mesidor will be one of the older prospects in this class, turning 25 years old before the draft.

Final Analysis

A versatile and highly productive rusher, Mesidor’s physical traits and high-effort style of play give him a high floor when projecting pro success. His ceiling will depend on his ability to fine-tune his technique and widen his array of pass-rushing moves, but teams will have to weigh how early to value that floor and potential ceiling for a player who will be pushing 30 when he hits his second contract.

Current Projection: 2nd Round