Bears Eye Miami Edge Rusher Akheem Mesidor as Potential NFL Draft Target Lou Canellis of NBC Chicago breaks down Miami defensive end Akheem Mesidor, a potential draft pick for the Chicago Bears at No. 25. Mesidor's strong collegiate performance, mentorship under Jason Taylor, and run-stopping ability are highlighted, alongside concerns about his age and size. As the Chicago Bears gear up for the 2026 NFL Draft, with the 25th overall pick in hand, the organization faces critical decisions in its pursuit of sustained playoff contention. NBC Chicago's Lou Canellis has embarked on a series of in-depth player breakdowns, highlighting potential targets who could significantly bolster the team's roster. Among the intriguing prospects emerging is Miami Hurricanes defensive end Akheem Mesidor, a player whose combination of impactful playmaking and potential to address specific team needs has garnered considerable attention. Mesidor's ascent to prominence was notably marked by his standout performances in key matchups during his final collegiate season. His ability to disrupt opposing offenses was on full display when he recorded 1.5 sacks in Miami's season-opening victory over Notre Dame. This momentum carried into the College Football Playoff, where he once again delivered a critical 1.5 sack performance against Texas A&M in their inaugural CFP game. These impactful moments underscore his capacity to deliver under pressure, a trait highly valued in the NFL. Furthermore, Mesidor has benefited from the tutelage of defensive guru and legendary pass rusher Jason Taylor. This mentorship has seemingly honed his technique and football acumen, leading to increased interest from NFL evaluators. Beyond his pass-rushing prowess, Mesidor has also demonstrated a strong aptitude for run defense, an area that the Chicago Bears are actively seeking to fortify. His ability to contribute effectively against the run would provide a more complete defensive presence, complementing his ability to generate pressure on the quarterback. Despite his impressive collegiate resume, questions surrounding Mesidor's NFL readiness are being closely examined by scouts. A primary concern revolves around his age, as he recently celebrated his 25th birthday. While experience can be an asset, this places him at the upper end of the typical draft prospect age range. Additionally, his physical measurements present a potential challenge. Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 259 pounds, he is considered somewhat undersized for a traditional defensive lineman in the NFL. Scouts have voiced reservations about his arm length and his ability to consistently leverage his speed to penetrate offensive line blocking schemes and exploit gaps. However, the Bears are known to prioritize football intelligence and physical power in their selections. If Mesidor possesses the high football IQ and the raw power that his game tape suggests, he could represent a compelling gamble for Chicago. The team's strategic approach to the draft will be further illuminated in the coming days, with Canellis continuing his detailed analysis. On draft day itself, the insights of former Bears head coach Dave Wannstedt will be brought to bear, offering expert commentary on the team's selection and the broader context of their ongoing offseason maneuvers.