Why not go get Dexter Lawrence?
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In this episode of Believe in Chargers, hosts Matt Money Smith and Lorenzo Neal dive into the upcoming NFL Draft and the Chargers' immediate needs, emphasizing the team's window to win now. They passionately argue for prioritizing veteran talent over high draft picks, spotlighting Akeem Mesidor—a 25-year-old, mature, versatile defensive lineman—as a plug-and-play solution for the Chargers' defensive line. The hosts reject the notion that age disqualifies a player, citing Mesidor’s readiness and NFL experience as key advantages over younger, less developed prospects. The conversation then pivots to a bold, high-stakes trade idea: acquiring Dexter Lawrence from the New York Giants. Despite his age (29), injury history, and recent underperformance, the hosts argue he remains a 'unicorn' interior defender whose presence would transform the Chargers' defense, citing his elite snap counts, pass-rushing numbers, and game-changing impact—especially in playoff scenarios. They stress that with over $40 million in cap space, the Chargers could afford to restructure Lawrence’s deal and still maintain flexibility. The episode closes with a strong endorsement of investing in elite, proven players over developmental talent, especially when the team is already competitive and in a Super Bowl window.
Prioritize mature, ready-to-play veterans like Akeem Mesidor over younger, less developed draft picks.
Dexter Lawrence, despite age and injury concerns, remains a 'unicorn' interior defender with elite pass-rushing and run-stopping ability.
The Chargers have over $40 million in cap space and should use it to acquire a proven defensive star like Lawrence.
A strong interior defensive lineman can dramatically improve a defense by collapsing the pocket and freeing up edge rushers.
Elite players matter most in the playoffs—blue-chip talent often makes the difference in high-stakes games.
…and 1 more takeaway available in PodZeus
Draft Countdown & Masters Odds
The hosts kick off the episode with excitement for the upcoming NFL Draft and preview the Masters tournament, discussing favorite players and betting odds.
College Football & Player Compensation Debate
The hosts debate the evolving landscape of college football, questioning whether players should be paid and discussing the impact of the transfer portal on team identity and competitiveness.
Why Akeem Mesidor is the Perfect Draft Target
“Give me the 25-year-old that I can drop in there and kick inside or rush outside, and he's versatile enough to be a D tackle, an interior pass rusher in the NASCAR package, or an edge rusher in the pack.”
The Case for Trading for Dexter Lawrence
“Dexter Lawrence would be the best player on the draft this year. He would be the number one player in the draft and not Arbel Reese.”
Cap Space, Trade Strategy & Playoff Reality
“If you score 21, who can beat you? That's a question.”
“Dexter Lawrence would be the best player on the draft this year. He would be the number one player in the draft and not Arbel Reese.”
“Give me the 25-year-old that I can drop in there and kick inside or rush outside, and he's versatile enough to be a D tackle, an interior pass rusher in the NASCAR package, or an edge rusher in the pack.”
“If you score 21, who can beat you? That's a question.”
Hosts
Los Angeles Chargers
organization
Matt Money Smith
person
Lorenzo Neal
person
Dexter Lawrence
person
Akeem Mesidor
person
New York Giants
organization
Harbaugh
person
Mike McDaniel
person
ZipRecruiter
organization
Khalil Mack
person
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