Akheem Mesidor isn’t just another name in the draft; he’s a force of nature on the field. His explosive first step, relentless motor, and violent hands make him a standout pick for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at No. 15.
Every draft has that one defensive lineman who defies easy categorization. Mesidor is that hybrid disruptor who blends speed, power, and sheer determination to wreak havoc on opposing offenses.
For Miami, Mesidor was a game-changer, and the Buccaneers are hoping he can bring the same energy to Tampa Bay. At 24, this Canadian powerhouse has already shown he can be a versatile, high-motor edge defender with a knack for disruption.
The Buccaneers, with seven picks in this year’s draft, including three in the top 100, are poised to make a splash. Mesidor, a 2025 All-ACC and All-American defensive end, is at the center of their plans.
The Hurricane’s Force
Mesidor’s journey to becoming a top defensive playmaker wasn’t straightforward. Arriving at Miami as a transfer, he carved out his role through relentless effort and consistency. Whether standing up on the edge, with his hand in the dirt, or even sliding inside on passing downs, he was the Hurricanes’ go-to guy, trusted to win his matchup from any position.
His tape reveals a player with a lightning-fast first step. He’s not just quick; he’s sudden, forcing tackles into early recovery.
His excellent pad level allows him to slip under taller opponents, attacking with leverage. This burst and bend create a natural path to the quarterback, especially on wide-track rushes.
But don’t mistake him for just a finesse player. Mesidor’s hands are both violent and precise, with a keen understanding of how to sequence his moves.
From long-arm rips to swipe-dips and cross-chops, he executes each with intention. He doesn’t just react; he sets up tackles throughout the game.
His ability to convert speed to power is underrated, as he can drive through contact and collapse the pocket.
Against the run, Mesidor plays bigger than his size suggests. He’s strong at the point of attack, using leverage and hand placement to hold his ground.
While not the prototypical 270-pound edge-setter, he’s disciplined and physical, rarely giving up clean edges. His pursuit is relentless, chasing down plays from the backside and finishing with urgency.
Draft Position and Potential
There’s still room for Mesidor to grow, particularly in functional strength and block deconstruction. Bigger NFL tackles with reach can neutralize him if he doesn’t win early, and adding mass will be crucial against power-heavy run schemes.
While his pass-rush plan is sophisticated, he occasionally stalls when his initial move doesn’t land cleanly. Developing secondary counters will be key to finishing plays at the next level.
Mesidor projects as a versatile rotational edge with the potential to start, especially in an attacking 4-3 front or hybrid scheme that values movement and varied alignments. His motor, technique, and burst provide a solid foundation, and his adaptability makes him a perfect fit for creative defensive coordinators.
In Mesidor, the Buccaneers aren’t just getting a player; they’re adding a dynamic weapon to their defensive arsenal. This pick could be a game-changer for Tampa Bay, setting the stage for a defense that can keep opponents guessing.