The 2026 NFL Draft is approaching fast and league scouts are solidifying their big boards. Defensive Lineman Akheem Mesidor could be among the players who hear their name called early in Pittsburgh this week when the NFL welcomes its newest class of rookies.
USA TODAY Sports has all the latest on where the prospect out of Miami (FL) may land.
Here's how USA TODAY's latest mock draft currently projects draft day will play out for the former college star.
He will be 25 by draft night but could provide instant production for a team that should be an instant contender, despite Tampa falling off its NFC South throne last season after leading the ACC with 12 sacks in 2025, including 5 in the CFP. YaYa Diaby was the only Buc with more than 4 sacks last season, and recently signed Al-Quadin Muhammad is only under contract for one year.
Biggest concerns from evaluators will likely be his age (25) and injury history. Once you look past that, he offers a lot to like as an edge rusher. Double-digit sacks in 2025 thanks to his quickness and bend. A bit of a tweener but has a high motor and good block shedding in run defense.
Sixth-year senior had a breakout season, helping the Canes reach national championship game. Age and injury history (foot, shoulder) are negative factors, but he missed only one game over last two seasons.
The 2026 NFL Draft will take place between April 23-25 in Pittsburgh.
Time: 8 p.m. ET (Round 1); 7 p.m. ET (Rounds 2-3); Noon ET (Rounds 4-7)
Streaming: NFL+; ESPN Unlimited & Select; Fubo
Fans have several options to choose from to watch the 2026 NFL Draft. NFL Network and ESPN will have separate broadcasts, each providing a different analysis of each pick as it happens on draft night.
Cord-cutters can stream the different broadcasts on NFL+, the NFL's proprietary streaming service; ESPN Select or ESPN Unlimited, ESPN's streaming services; or cable alternative Fubo , which offers a free trial.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Akheem Mesidor 2026 NFL mock draft: latest prediction for Miami (FL) Defensive Lineman