The Chargers select a very experienced EDGE Ahkeem Mesidor at No. 22
The Chargers are getting a well-coached EDGE who wants to be a tone-setter.
Feb 25, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Miami defensive lineman Akheem Mesidor (DL51) speaks during the NFL Scouting Combine at the Indiana Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images 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.
Stats & Accolades 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 What the Chargers are getting: 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.