Miami Hurricanes defensive standout Akheem Mesidor spoke to media about his recovery from last season’s foot injury, his development, and the growth of some younger linemen. It is a pivotal season for the 2nd year Cane (transferred from WVU), as he is squarely on the NFL radar.
As the fall camp kicks off, Mesidor seems optimistic about his physical condition. He commented, "It's been a long offseason, but I've been working a lot, and you know, I feel like I'm back." Clearly, he has been putting in the work during the offseason, focusing on building both mental and physical toughness.
Reflecting on his injury recovery timeline, Mesidor revealed the challenges he faced during the summer. He underwent foot surgery after struggling with the same injury throughout the previous season. Fortunately, he has fully recovered and is ready to give his best in the upcoming campaign.
When asked if he considers himself as more of a defensive end or tackle, Mesidor described himself as a hybrid player, comfortable in both roles. His versatility and skill set make him a valuable asset to the team's defensive scheme, as he is expected to slide inside on passing downs to create more mismatches inside.
"I like playing inside because guards are typically slower and have slower feet, and I can have a better rush or a better opportunity to win the rush against them."
To take his game to the next level, Mesidor said his focus has been diligently working on his “physicality, footwork, and hands.” He acknowledged that last year, he felt his hand control and overall body control were lacking, so these areas have been a primary focus during the off-season.
As the new season dawns, Mesidor recognizes his role as one of the older guys on the team. Embracing the responsibility, he is determined to step up as a leader and be more vocal. "This year, I feel like I'm more vocal, especially to the young guys. I love helping the young guys; any questions anybody has, I'm always there for," Mesidor remarked.
In particular, Mesidor has taken freshman Reuben Bain under his wing. Speaking about their relationship, he said, "Reuben is my guy. I see a lot of myself in him because we have a similar body type. He can play inside and outside." It is evident that Mesidor has developed a mentor-like connection with Bain.
When asked about the progress of Leonard Taylor, the third-year defensive tackle, Mesidor was quick to praise him. He said, "I think Leonard took a big step mentally. He's getting smarter in the game, and I feel like he's putting a lot more time and effort into his personal craft."
As the fall camp kicks off, Mesidor seems optimistic about his physical condition. He commented, "It's been a long offseason, but I've been working a lot, and you know, I feel like I'm back." Clearly, he has been putting in the work during the offseason, focusing on building both mental and physical toughness.
Reflecting on his injury recovery timeline, Mesidor revealed the challenges he faced during the summer. He underwent foot surgery after struggling with the same injury throughout the previous season. Fortunately, he has fully recovered and is ready to give his best in the upcoming campaign.
When asked if he considers himself as more of a defensive end or tackle, Mesidor described himself as a hybrid player, comfortable in both roles. His versatility and skill set make him a valuable asset to the team's defensive scheme, as he is expected to slide inside on passing downs to create more mismatches inside.
"I like playing inside because guards are typically slower and have slower feet, and I can have a better rush or a better opportunity to win the rush against them."
To take his game to the next level, Mesidor said his focus has been diligently working on his “physicality, footwork, and hands.” He acknowledged that last year, he felt his hand control and overall body control were lacking, so these areas have been a primary focus during the off-season.
As the new season dawns, Mesidor recognizes his role as one of the older guys on the team. Embracing the responsibility, he is determined to step up as a leader and be more vocal. "This year, I feel like I'm more vocal, especially to the young guys. I love helping the young guys; any questions anybody has, I'm always there for," Mesidor remarked.
In particular, Mesidor has taken freshman Reuben Bain under his wing. Speaking about their relationship, he said, "Reuben is my guy. I see a lot of myself in him because we have a similar body type. He can play inside and outside." It is evident that Mesidor has developed a mentor-like connection with Bain.
When asked about the progress of Leonard Taylor, the third-year defensive tackle, Mesidor was quick to praise him. He said, "I think Leonard took a big step mentally. He's getting smarter in the game, and I feel like he's putting a lot more time and effort into his personal craft."
