2026 NFL Draft: Canadian Akheem Mesidor projected to be a first-round pick

There will be some Canadian talent on display at Thursday’s NFL draft as University of Miami defensive lineman Akheem Mesidor is expected to be an early pick.

Here’s what you need to know.

Akheem Mesidor

Mesidor is widely expected to be a first round NFL pick, with some mock drafts placing him as high as 15th overall.

The Ottawa native finished the 2025 season with 60 tackles, 10.5 sacks and four forced fumbles. He was named a first-team all-Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) selection.

At 25, Mesidor is an older prospect, but his power and hands have scouts believing he can make an immediate impact in the NFL.

Mesidor is a +500 co-favourite to be drafted 20th overall on the NFL futures board. That pick is currently held by the Dallas Cowboys as part of the Micah Parsons trade.

However, I see more value in taking Mesidor to go 22nd overall at +900. That would send Mesidor to the Los Angeles Chargers (barring a trade), who need to bolster their pass rush. Khalil Mack is well into the back-nine of his career and Mesidor would form a strong duo with Tuli Tuipulotu.