The Chargers selected Akheem Mesidor, EDGE, out of the U with the 22nd overall pick in the 2026 draft. Here’s what you need to know.

2020 (West Virginia): (10 games played, 1 start), 32 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, 5 sacks, Second-Team All-Big 12

2021 (West Virginia): (13 games played, 13 starts), 38 tackles, 8 tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks, Honorable Mention All-Big 12

2022 (Miami): (11 games played, 8 starts), 38 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, 7 sacks, 4 pass deflections, forced fumble

2023 (Miami): (3 games played, 2 starts), 5 tackles, tackle for loss, sack

2024 (Miami): (13 games played, 13 starts), 32 tackles, 9 tackles for loss, 5.5 sacks

2025 (Miami): (15 games played, 15 starts), 63 tackles, 17.5 tackles for loss, 12.5 sacks, 4 forced fumbles

A very experienced, well-coached edge rusher who overcomes his lack of prototypical length with a motor that just doesn’t seem to quit. He wants to be a tone-setter for the defense and a leader by example with the way he flies around the field to make the splash play. His age as a rookie will turn some teams off (25 when season begins) but the production and overall makeup will keep him in the first-round conversation come April.

High-running motor that doesn’t seem to lessen as game goes on

Flexible pass rusher who can switch from power to finesse and back when needed

Overaggression on backside pursuits can be exploited by offenses