The Detroit Lions aim to strengthen their defense by adding a ready-to-play edge rusher in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft. The team seeks a complement to second-team All-Pro Aidan Hutchinson, addressing a critical need for an immediate pass-rushing presence opposite their star player as they pursue a playoff return.
According to CBS Sports analyst Garrett Podell, the Lions are projected to select Miami defensive lineman Akheem Mesidor with the 17th overall pick. Podell highlights Mesidor as the ideal candidate to serve alongside Hutchinson, offering a mix of experience, skill, and toughness needed to upgrade Detroit’s defensive front without delay.
Akheem Mesidor’s Profile as a Key Defensive Addition
Mesidor, who will be 25 years old this year, impresses with his production and physical traits. In the 2025 season, he ranked among the top five in college football for sacks (12.5), tackles for loss (17.5), and quarterback pressures (67), demonstrating consistent disruption against opposing offenses. His build, technique, and relentless effort make him a strong fit for the Lions.
“The Lions need an edge rusher who can come in on the cheap and immediately contribute opposite Aidan Hutchinson,”
Podell wrote.
“Mesidor, who will turn 25 years old this year, can check those boxes. He ranked among college football’s top five nationally in sacks (12.5, tied for third in the FBS), tackles for loss (17.5, tied for fifth in the FBS) and quarterback pressures (67, tied for fourth in the FBS) in 2025 opposite the aforementioned Bain at Miami.”
Mesidor’s strengths extend to both pass rush and run defense. His wingspan and power help him anchor the edge effectively, something the Lions value highly.
“Mesidor’s wingspan and power allow him to anchor down on the edge in the run game. That’s what the Lions need.”
Over 15 games last season, Mesidor led the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) in sacks and added four forced fumbles, totaling 17.5 tackles for loss. His college career encompasses 208 combined tackles, including 52.5 tackles for loss and 35.5 sacks across 65 contests.
Why Mesidor Complements Aidan Hutchinson
While Miami teammate Rueben Bain Jr. is expected to be a top-10 pick, likely the first Miami defensive lineman taken, Mesidor is projected as the second defensive lineman chosen from the Hurricanes’ squad. Typically, second-ranked prospects from a dominant college group face challenges adjusting without the higher-rated teammate, but this situation differs.
In Detroit, Mesidor would not be the primary pass rusher but rather a complementary force alongside Hutchinson, who had a career-best 14.5 sacks last season. Hutchinson’s dominant performance included 14 tackles for loss, 35 quarterback hits, four forced fumbles, and three pass deflections in 17 games during 2025.
This setup allows Mesidor to frequently receive single-blocking assignments, enabling him to maximize his skill set without excessive pressure as the lead edge rusher.
Assessing Concerns About Mesidor’s Age
A notable point of discussion regarding Mesidor’s draft profile is his age. At 25, he is older than many NFL rookies, which might seem like a drawback for some teams. However, given the Lions’ urgency to make a playoff push next season, age could serve as an advantage.
Experience and maturity often translate to readiness and consistency on the field, qualities valuable in a player expected to contribute right away. Mesidor’s journey included two productive seasons at West Virginia, where he recorded 14.5 tackles for loss and 9.5 sacks, before moving on to Miami for four seasons.
At Miami, Mesidor posted double-digit sacks twice and significantly enhanced his draft appeal with a standout postseason during the 2025 College Football Playoffs, notching 5.5 sacks in four playoff games.
The Lions’ pursuit of Mesidor reflects their goal of adding a polished edge rusher capable of supporting Hutchinson and strengthening the overall defense to increase their chances of postseason success.
