For many, the hope was that the Los Angeles Chargers came out of the first round with the top offensive guard in the draft. Instead, with Olaivavega Ioane getting snatched up by the Baltimore Ravens at 14th overall, they were left with a number of paths to follow.
Akheem Mesidor, while not the most exciting pick that took place on Day 1, was the right move for the Chargers given what was on the table. Los Angeles has a clear need for a third edge rusher, and they need to have a succession plan in place for when Khalil Mack's time inevitably comes to an end.
That doesn't mean Mesidor doesn't come with his fair share of controversy, however. He's already 25, and his injury history meant his place as a first-round selection was not always completely guaranteed.
But he's a worthy pick nevertheless, and a recent scouting report by Chris Landers at Fansided.com confirms that fact. Landers claims that Mesidor, despite his flaws, is a piece that can immediately elevate a Super-Bowl-contending roster.
For the Chargers, that should undeniably be the goal.
Akheem Mesidor isn't the best long-term swing, but he can make an immediate impact for a team with eyes on the Super Bowl
Here's what Landers had to say about Mesidor:
"If you're building for the future, you can look elsewhere; but if you're planning on playing meaningful games in January (or, hopefully, February) and you don't feel great about your pass rushing situation as currently constructed, Mesidor comes with a high floor and a ready-made ability to help from multiple alignments." Chris Landers, Fansided.com
Without a doubt, the future must be a consideration. But as long as Justin Herbert is on the roster, the goal should be Super Bowl or bust for Los Angeles.
Granted, Mesidor will be 30 by the time his rookie contract ends. But he showed more than enough flash in his final season at the University of Miami, amassing 55 pressures and nine sacks on 360 pass-rush snaps (per Pro Football Focus) across 15 games. He has the ability to align inside when needed, which will allow him room to earn additional snaps as a rookie alongside Tuli Tuipulotu and Mack.
For a team in need of an additional pass-rushing presence on both the interior and at outside linebacker, there couldn't be a better fit than Mesidor.
This move will have its detractors, and understandably so. But the Mesidor move could be one that makes a difference when the season comes down to its most meaningful moments. That's ultimately the goal, isn't it?
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