Akheem Mesidor, a promising NFL draft prospect from the Miami Hurricanes, acknowledges the significant impact that Dolphins legend Jason Taylor has had on his rise in the draft rankings ahead of the combine. Mesidor, who plays defensive end, is training at Bommarito Performance Systems in South Florida as he prepares for the upcoming NFL scouting combine.
In a recent interview, Mesidor expressed his admiration for Taylor, a Hall of Fame defensive end who is now coaching at the University of Miami. “It”s awesome. JT did it for 15 years at the highest level, and he was the best defensive player in the NFL at one point,” Mesidor stated. He views Taylor as a mentor and big brother, appreciating his direct approach to coaching. “He respects me, as I respect him. He gets straight to the point and doesn”t waste our time,” Mesidor added.
Since transferring to Miami from West Virginia before the 2022 season, Mesidor has thrived under Taylor”s guidance. Last season, he recorded 12 1/2 sacks, leading the Atlantic Coast Conference and ranking third in the Football Bowl Subdivision. Mesidor noted, “A lot of coaches don”t let you work on your craft… JT helps you perfect what works for you. It”s been awesome to pick his brain.” He credits Taylor for much of his mental and technical growth, which contributed to his successful season.
The Miami Dolphins have a pressing need for edge rushers in the upcoming draft, especially following the news about outside linebacker Bradley Chubb“s release. Mesidor could potentially join fellow Hurricane Rueben Bain, who is projected to be a top-10 pick, as a first-round selection. Mesidor remarked on the possibility of being drafted by the Dolphins, saying, “It”d be huge. I wouldn”t have to leave my second home.” However, he acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding where he would be picked.
As Mesidor prepares for the combine, he is focused on recovering from a long season that included playing in 15 games, with his last outing being a championship game loss. He expressed confidence in his training regimen, stating, “It”s not really much of a transition… I”ve been training since I was like 10 years old. The biggest thing is getting your body back.” He emphasized the importance of maintaining his physical condition and being ready for the combine and pro day.
The Bommarito Performance Systems facility has garnered a reputation for producing top talent, and Mesidor has received encouraging feedback from former Hurricanes who trained there. “South Florida, it”s home. It”s the best place. It produces the best athletes,” he said, highlighting the advantages of training locally.
Mesidor is also mindful of the interview process with NFL teams, stating, “I want them to know that football has always been the main thing… I love football, and my approach to the game… it”s all because I want to be the best I can be.” His journey has not only been about personal achievement but also about taking on leadership roles as he helped Miami secure back-to-back 10-win seasons. “It meant the world… I had to step out of my comfort zone and be a leader,” he explained.
As he looks toward his NFL future, Mesidor aims to bring his leadership skills into the league, adopting a humble approach as a rookie. “If I”m a rookie, I”m just going to keep my head down and try to establish myself,” he said, demonstrating a commitment to work and growth.
With a versatile skill set, Mesidor is capable of playing various positions along the defensive line, from the 3-technique to lining up wide. “I”m super versatile, and I”m willing to do whatever it takes,” he concluded, eyeing the potential of being part of a historic duo if both he and Bain are selected in the first round.
