Lions Target Miami Edge Rusher to Boost Hutchinson's Impact

Detroit seeks Akheem Mesidor to immediately upgrade defense and support star pass rusher Aidan Hutchinson in 2026 NFL Draft.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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The Detroit Lions aim to strengthen their defense by adding a ready-to-play edge rusher in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft. The team seeks a complement to second-team All-Pro Aidan Hutchinson, addressing a critical need for an immediate pass-rushing presence opposite their star player as they pursue a playoff return. According to CBS Sports analyst Garrett Podell, the Lions are projected to select Miami defensive lineman Akheem Mesidor with the 17th overall pick.

Why it matters

The Lions need to upgrade their defensive front to support Hutchinson and improve their chances of making the playoffs next season. Mesidor's production and physical traits make him an ideal candidate to serve alongside Hutchinson and provide an immediate boost to the team's pass rush.

The details

Mesidor, who will be 25 years old this year, impressed in 2025 with 12.5 sacks, 17.5 tackles for loss, and 67 quarterback pressures, ranking among the top five in college football in those categories. His build, technique, and relentless effort make him a strong fit for the Lions' defense. Mesidor's strengths extend to both pass rush and run defense, and his experience and maturity could be an advantage as the Lions look for an immediate contributor.

  • In the 2025 season, Mesidor ranked among the top five in college football for sacks (12.5), tackles for loss (17.5), and quarterback pressures (67).
  • Over 15 games last season, Mesidor led the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) in sacks and added four forced fumbles, totaling 17.5 tackles for loss.

The players

Aidan Hutchinson

A second-team All-Pro edge rusher for the Detroit Lions, Hutchinson had a career-best 14.5 sacks, 14 tackles for loss, 35 quarterback hits, four forced fumbles, and three pass deflections in 17 games during the 2025 season.

Akheem Mesidor

A 25-year-old defensive lineman from the University of Miami, Mesidor is projected to be selected by the Detroit Lions in the 2026 NFL Draft. He is expected to provide an immediate boost to the team's pass rush and complement Aidan Hutchinson.

Garrett Podell

A CBS Sports analyst who has highlighted Mesidor as the ideal candidate to serve alongside Hutchinson, offering a mix of experience, skill, and toughness needed to upgrade Detroit's defensive front.

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What they’re saying

“The Lions need an edge rusher who can come in on the cheap and immediately contribute opposite Aidan Hutchinson. Mesidor, who will turn 25 years old this year, can check those boxes. He ranked among college football's top five nationally in sacks (12.5, tied for third in the FBS), tackles for loss (17.5, tied for fifth in the FBS) and quarterback pressures (67, tied for fourth in the FBS) in 2025 opposite the aforementioned Bain at Miami.”

— Garrett Podell, CBS Sports Analyst (theconwaybulletin.com)

“Mesidor's wingspan and power allow him to anchor down on the edge in the run game. That's what the Lions need.”

— Garrett Podell, CBS Sports Analyst (theconwaybulletin.com)

What’s next

The Lions will look to select Akheem Mesidor with the 17th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft to immediately upgrade their defensive front and support star edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson.

The takeaway

By targeting Akheem Mesidor in the 2026 NFL Draft, the Detroit Lions are seeking to bolster their defensive line and provide a complementary pass-rushing threat opposite Aidan Hutchinson. This move reflects the team's urgency to build a playoff-caliber defense and maximize Hutchinson's impact as they aim to return to the postseason.