Akheem Mesidor tops CFL scouting bureau rankings ahead of draft

Miami defensive end Akheem Mesidor works out during the school's NFL Pro Day, Monday March 23, 2026. (AP Photo/Michael Laughlin)

TORONTO — University of Miami defensive lineman Akheem Mesidor is No. 1 in the CFL scouting bureau’s spring rankings, released Tuesday ahead of the league’s Canadian draft next week.

Mesidor, who also topped the fall and winter lists, had 60 tackles, 10.5 sacks and four forced fumbles in 2025 and was named a first-team all-Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) selection.

The Ottawa native is projected as a first-round NFL pick, with some mock drafts placing him as high as No. 15 overall. The NFL draft begins Thursday.

Boston College offensive lineman Logan Taylor of Lunenburg, N.S., is second in the CFL scouting bureau rankings, while Louisville defensive linemen Rene Konga and Wesley Bailey, both of Ottawa, are third and fourth.

Mississippi State offensive lineman Albert Reese IV of Edmonton is fifth.

The CFL draft is April 28, with the Ottawa Redblacks holding the first overall pick.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published April 21, 2026.