Akheem Mesidor had his turn at the podium during ACC Media Days, stepping up as a veteran on a talented Miami Hurricanes defensive line group. Reflecting on last season’s struggles and the team’s offseason focus, Mesidor made one thing clear. It all starts with communication.
When asked what the Hurricanes need to improve on defensively, Mesidor didn’t hesitate:
“The biggest thing we've been emphasizing this offseason is communication. If you don't communicate, your defense is going to get torched, right? We have a bunch of new additions, but communication is the biggest thing for us,” he said.
Now entering his final college season, Mesidor is embracing his role as the leader of Miami’s defensive front. He knows that with experience comes responsibility, not just to perform, but to set the tone for the entire unit.
“A big step I've been trying to take this offseason is the leadership role. I think I'm the oldest guy in the room, but I just want to lead by example — and also be more vocal. I've been bringing guys along with extra work, getting to know everybody, and letting them know my story and my why,” Mesidor shared. “We have a deep room, a bunch of guys who can play. But we need to establish our identity and dominate.”
He started all 13 games for Miami in 2024, finishing with 32 total tackles, 9.0 tackles for loss, 5.5 sacks, a forced fumble, and six quarterback hurries. His consistency and disruptive presence make him one of the most reliable players on the Hurricanes’ defense.
As he enters his final collegiate season, Mesidor is aiming to leave Miami with a bang, and potentially hear his name called in the later rounds of the 2025 NFL Draft.
When asked what the Hurricanes need to improve on defensively, Mesidor didn’t hesitate:
“The biggest thing we've been emphasizing this offseason is communication. If you don't communicate, your defense is going to get torched, right? We have a bunch of new additions, but communication is the biggest thing for us,” he said.
Now entering his final college season, Mesidor is embracing his role as the leader of Miami’s defensive front. He knows that with experience comes responsibility, not just to perform, but to set the tone for the entire unit.
“A big step I've been trying to take this offseason is the leadership role. I think I'm the oldest guy in the room, but I just want to lead by example — and also be more vocal. I've been bringing guys along with extra work, getting to know everybody, and letting them know my story and my why,” Mesidor shared. “We have a deep room, a bunch of guys who can play. But we need to establish our identity and dominate.”
He started all 13 games for Miami in 2024, finishing with 32 total tackles, 9.0 tackles for loss, 5.5 sacks, a forced fumble, and six quarterback hurries. His consistency and disruptive presence make him one of the most reliable players on the Hurricanes’ defense.
As he enters his final collegiate season, Mesidor is aiming to leave Miami with a bang, and potentially hear his name called in the later rounds of the 2025 NFL Draft.
