Akheem Mesidor: Chiefs’ Draft Target to Bolster Pass Rush
The Kansas City Chiefs are facing a critical need to improve their pass rush heading into the 2026 NFL season. After finishing tied for 26th in the league in sacks during the 2025 season , the team is expected to prioritize edge defenders in the 2026 NFL Draft. Miami edge rusher Akheem Mesidor has emerged as a potential target, offering a blend of experience and proven production.
Mesidor’s Background and Collegiate Career
Akheem Mesidor, a sixth-year redshirt senior from Ottawa, Ontario, began his collegiate career at West Virginia, earning All-Massive 12 recognition and Freshman All-America honors. He transferred to Miami, where he became a disruptive force on the defensive line. Despite facing injury setbacks in 2023, Mesidor delivered a dominant 2025 season, starting all 13 games and recording 13 sacks and 67 total pressures.
Strengths and Skills
Mesidor possesses a prototypical frame for an edge defender, standing at 6-3 and weighing 265 pounds. Scouts highlight his explosive first step, power-to-speed conversion, and ability to rush both with speed, and power. He demonstrates strong run defense with good edge discipline and advanced hand usage.
Potential Concerns
Despite his impressive production, Mesidor’s age and injury history are potential concerns for NFL teams. He is older than many draft prospects, having faced opponents like Jalen Reagor and Denzel Mims early in his college career (both drafted in 2020). Some scouts also note a need for improved run discipline and a more refined first step.
Fit with the Kansas City Chiefs
The Chiefs’ draft strategy in 2026 may shift towards prioritizing players who can contribute immediately, given their limited cap space and the urgency to address the pass rush. Mesidor’s experience and proven ability to pressure the quarterback could make him an attractive option, even if he lacks the high-upside potential of younger prospects. The Chiefs led by George Karlaftis with only six sacks in 2025, need to add more juice to the pass rush.
As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, Akheem Mesidor remains a player to watch for the Kansas City Chiefs as they seek to reinforce their defensive line and contend for another championship.