Mekhi Becton Looks to Carve Out a Role with the Eagles
Mekhi Becton, once a highly touted first-round pick by the New York Jets, is now donning a Philadelphia Eagles jersey. Signing with the Eagles in May, Becton's move represents both a fresh start and a new challenge as he aims to solidify his place on the team.
Becton's tenure with the Jets was marred by injuries and inconsistent play, prompting the move to Philadelphia where the Eagles initially planned for him to serve as a backup for tackle positions behind Jordan Mailata and Lane Johnson. However, the coaching staff has also strategized a potential shift for Becton to play at guard.
During the Eagles' mandatory minicamp, Becton stepped up admirably to fill the gap at left guard caused by the absence of Landon Dickerson, who missed time due to personal reasons and a subsequent lacerated toe. This unforeseen opportunity allowed Becton to demonstrate his adaptability.
While adjusting to the interior offensive line, Becton has been realistic about the challenges. "It's an adjustment, but it's not a hard adjustment. I can do it," he remarked. His transition to guard has shown his willingness to learn and adapt quickly, despite the faster pace of the position. "Guard, it happens way faster. You don't have time to say, you just gotta settle with what you gotta settle with. Your feet don't have time to set up what you gotta set up. It's real faster. It's right away. Your hands gotta be ready to fire right away."
Competing for a starting spot is part of Becton's new reality. As training camp looms, he’s set his sights on challenging Tyler Steen for the starting right guard position, although he has yet to play at right guard. His impressive arm length provides a distinct advantage, leading Becton to comment, "I feel like I don't really know the disadvantages yet, but the advantages would be my arm length compared to defensive tackles and stuff like that."
Becton has embraced a versatile mindset. "I don't know what I'm gonna be when I come in here. Once I step on the field, I know I gotta be ready for whatever." This approach highlights his determination to be prepared regardless of the role he ultimately undertakes. His feelings of readiness and preparedness are evident when he states, "If I can start, I'll start. If I don't, I'll be ready." His willingness to support the team in any capacity is echoed in his words: "I just learn from everybody all day every day. It's a fun thing to do."
Training camp and the preseason games will be critical in testing Becton's ability to adjust and perform under pressure. The Eagles will closely monitor his progress to determine his fit within their offensive line strategy. Perhaps most telling of Becton's commitment is his assurance, "I know I'm not, like that wasn't the thing when they signed me here. I don't have to get ready. I just know when my number is called I'm always gonna be ready."
As the coming weeks unfold, the Eagles will look to see if Becton can translate his physical gifts and adaptive mindset into a consistent and impactful presence on the field. His journey in Philadelphia is just beginning, and with every practice snap, he takes a step closer to defining his role within the team.