The Chargers selected former Miami edge rusher Akheem Mesidor with the No. 22 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Getting a third edge rusher and eventual replacement for Khalil Mack was a priority for the Bolts and Chris O'Leary's defense, so they're banking on Mesidor being the long-term complement to Tuli Tuipulotu.

There are concerns about Mesidor's age (25) and other factors, but it just means he will enter the league with high-level technical refinement and be pro-ready. Mesidor's explosiveness, violent hands and relentless motor align perfectly with head coach Jim Harbaugh’s physical identity.

In his final season at Miami, Mesidor posted dominant numbers, including 12.5 sacks (tied for 2nd in the FBS) and 17.5 tackles for loss.

This article originally appeared on Chargers Wire: 2026 NFL Draft: Chargers select EDGE Akheem Mesidor in Round 1