The Chargers selected Miami edge rusher Akheem Mesidor with the 22nd pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Mesidor will be an older rookie (25 years old when the new season starts) but you cannot deny how much of an impact he can make getting after the quarterback. He led the ACC with 12.5 sacks in 2025 on top of posting 17.5 tackles for loss with four forced fumbles. He played a key role in helping the Hurricanes make it all the way to the CFP National Championship and he’ll now have the chance to play alongside both Khalil Mack and Tuli Tuipulotu during his first NFL season.
With that said, here are some of the top reactions to the selection from social media!
Love this pick—Akheem Mesidor brings serious energy off the edge ⚡
— Sharmin Bithi 🇧🇩 (@SharminBithi03) April 24, 2026
Akheem Mesidor was the best EDGE available, adding gas to the pass rushing group entering the perfect situation with chops to produce right away. Played inside and outside with intense violence.
Welcome to the Chargers, Akheem Mesidor! ⚡️ pic.twitter.com/gYWX1w5ReV
Some players just look like Jim Harbaugh-type guys.Akheem Mesidor is that kind of player. pic.twitter.com/lFqEQc1JUF
The Chargers take Akheem Mesidor who was the best edge rusher left in my opinion and the most ready to help contribute in 2026. A guy that showed he can make big plays as a rusher and against the run. Biggest problem is he is a huge age outlier, which is a pretty big risk.
Notes on New Chargers edge Akheem Mesidor: – First-Team All-ACC; ACC-best 12.5 Sacks in 2025, 1st Miami player to lead ACC in Sacks since Gregory Rousseau in 2019– 17.5 Tackles for Loss in 2025, 2nd most in ACC– 25 years-old but sees his age as an advantage: "You can call me…