The Los Angeles Chargers Select Akheem Mesidor at No. 22 in the 2026 NFL Draft

Jason Dayee
Defensive lineman Akheem Mesidor is selected by the Los Angeles Chargers with the No. 22 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft

The Los Angeles Chargers have officially fortified their defensive front, selecting Miami Hurricanes defensive end Akheem Mesidor with the 22nd overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. For Mesidor, hearing his name called on Thursday night in El Segundo represents the culmination of a grueling journey marked by undeniable talent and profound resilience.

It was a moment of pure relief and joy for the 25-year-old rookie. After enduring a string of severe physical setbacks that threatened to completely derail his football dreams, Mesidor is officially headed to the professional ranks. The Chargers identified a clear need for youthful energy and pass-rushing depth, and they are banking on his heart and determination to anchor their defensive line for years to come.

Making History for Canada

Standing 6-foot-3 and weighing 259 pounds, the Ottawa native made history on draft night. Mesidor became the first Canadian player ever selected in the first round of the NFL draft. His path from Ontario to the bright lights of Los Angeles is a testament to his relentless work ethic.

He began his collegiate career at West Virginia, making an immediate impact as a freshman All-American. He recorded five sacks in his debut season in 2020, showcasing a natural ability to disrupt opposing offenses while playing both defensive end and defensive tackle. In his sophomore season with the Mountaineers in 2021, he earned honorable mention All-Big 12 recognition after starting all 13 games and contributing 38 tackles, eight tackles for loss, and 4.5 sacks. Seeking a larger stage to showcase his skills, he transferred to Miami the following year. During his first season with the Hurricanes in 2022, he led the team with seven sacks and tied for the team lead with 10.5 tackles for loss.

Battling Through Physical Setbacks

The road to the NFL is rarely easy, but Mesidor faced a particularly steep climb. His time in college was frequently interrupted by injuries. In 2023, he played just two games before suffering severe foot injuries. He tore ligaments in both feet, a devastating blow that required extensive surgery and sidelined him for the remainder of the season.

For many athletes, bilateral foot surgery could signal the end of a promising career. The rehabilitation process is notoriously grueling and tests a player physically and mentally. Yet, Mesidor refused to let his story end on the training table. He channeled his frustration into his recovery, displaying a level of grit that undoubtedly caught the attention of NFL scouts.

He returned to the field in 2024, starting all 13 games and logging 5.5 sacks. But it was his 2025 senior campaign that truly cemented his first-round status. Mesidor unleashed a dominant season, tying for third in the FBS with 12.5 sacks. He also recorded 17.5 tackles for loss and forced four fumbles, earning first-team All-ACC honors. His spectacular performance helped lead the Hurricanes to the national championship game. Although they ultimately fell to Indiana and the number one overall draft pick, quarterback Fernando Mendoza, Mesidor fully vindicated his decision to push through the pain.

What Mesidor Brings to the Field

Evaluators consistently praise his fluid rush style and deep toolbox of pass-rushing moves. Mentored by Hall of Famer Jason Taylor during his time at Miami, Mesidor has learned to blend raw power with technical finesse. NFL draft analyst Lance Zierlein noted that Mesidor utilizes an effective inside-outside Euro step to shrink the corner and recognizes offensive tackle oversets with ease. He plays with a rabid determination, constantly keeping his motor dialed in when chasing plays down the field.

While he lacks the elite length typical of some top-tier edge rushers, his burst upfield and ability to string moves together seamlessly compensate for any physical limitations. With 35-year-old Khalil Mack entering the twilight of his illustrious career, the Chargers needed a capable successor. Mesidor fits that profile perfectly and will have the invaluable opportunity to learn directly from Mack.

Ready for the Next Level

At 25 years old, Mesidor enters the league as an older rookie. Some front offices might view his age and history of lower-body injuries as red flags. The Chargers, however, see a mature and battle-tested competitor who understands the fleeting nature of the sport. Mesidor knows what it means to have the game taken away from him. That perspective fuels his high-effort play style on every single snap. When he steps onto the field in Los Angeles, he will bring the exact same hunger that transformed him from an injured college player into a first-round draft pick.

Originally from Staten Island, New York, I’ve spent most of my adult life in Arizona, where my passion for sports continues to grow. A proud University of Arizona graduate, I developed my journalism skills covering mostly football, basketball, and a few other sports for the Daily Wildcat and UATV-3.

Now covering the Kansas City Chiefs for Total Apex Sports, I aim to tell authentic stories that highlight the journeys, triumphs, and challenges of athletes today. I’m passionate about connecting with readers through honest and insightful coverage that reflects my deep love for the game.