The Detroit Lions may have missed the postseason, but that doesn’t mean their roster is complete—especially along the defensive front. If Detroit wants to take a step forward in 2026, adding a reliable pass rusher opposite Aidan Hutchinson could be a priority.

CBS Sports analyst Garrett Podell recently projected that the Lions could address that need in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft. In his latest mock draft, Podell has Detroit selecting Miami defensive lineman Akheem Mesidor with the No. 17 overall pick.

According to Podell, the Lions need an affordable edge defender capable of making an instant impact alongside Hutchinson. Mesidor fits that description after a dominant 2025 campaign at Miami. He finished among the nation’s leaders with 12.5 sacks (tied for third in the FBS), 17.5 tackles for loss (tied for fifth), and 67 quarterback pressures (tied for fourth). He also paced the ACC in sacks.

Mesidor’s scouting profile highlights a well-rounded and relentless defender. He combines strength, length, and refined hand usage to disengage from blockers effectively. In addition to collapsing the pocket off the edge, he has shown the ability to rush inside against guards with quickness. His wingspan and power also help him hold up against the run, making him a complete defensive presence.

Over 15 games in 2025, Mesidor added four forced fumbles to his impressive stat line. Across 65 career college appearances between West Virginia and Miami, he totaled 208 tackles, 52.5 tackles for loss, and 35.5 sacks.

While many evaluators expect his Miami teammate Rueben Bain Jr. to be selected earlier—potentially within the top 10—Mesidor remains one of the top edge prospects in the class. Podell projected Bain to land with the New Orleans Saints at No. 8 overall.

In some situations, being the second defensive lineman from the same college program drafted can raise concerns about how a player performs without his standout counterpart. However, Detroit presents a different scenario. With Hutchinson coming off a 14.5-sack season that also included 14 tackles for loss, 35 quarterback hits, four forced fumbles, three pass breakups, and an interception, he commands significant attention from opposing offenses. That dynamic could allow Mesidor to face more favorable one-on-one matchups.

Another talking point surrounding Mesidor is his age—he will be 25 during his rookie year, which is older than most first-round prospects. Still, that maturity may actually benefit a team seeking immediate contributions. An older rookie often arrives more physically developed and technically refined, traits that could help Detroit return to playoff contention quickly.

Mesidor began his collegiate career at West Virginia, recording 14.5 tackles for loss and 9.5 sacks over two seasons before transferring to Miami. With the Hurricanes, he produced two double-digit sack seasons (2022 and 2025). His performance in the 2025 College Football Playoff further boosted his draft stock, as he tallied 5.5 sacks in four postseason games.

If Detroit is searching for a ready-made contributor to complement Hutchinson, Mesidor could emerge as a logical and impactful choice in the 2026 draft.