Mekhi Becton, the former first-round draft pick of the New York Jets, is set to sign a one-year deal with the Philadelphia Eagles worth up to $5.5 million. This signing comes after Becton’s tumultuous past couple of seasons due to multiple surgeries on his right knee, which caused him to miss a significant number of games. Despite starting 16 games last season, Becton faced challenges due to his injury history. However, he managed to persevere and make a comeback in 2023.
The problems for Becton began in the 2021 season when he suffered injuries that kept him off the field for the majority of the games. These setbacks were further complicated by his weight gain, which raised concerns about his future in football. His first attempt at a comeback in 2022 was short-lived when he reinjured his knee during training camp, requiring major surgery. Becton even blamed the coaching staff for his injury, claiming that a position switch put additional stress on his knee.
Rededication and Improvement
After facing a career crossroads, Becton decided to rededicate himself to his training and dropped 50 pounds. This effort paid off when he returned to camp in better shape and won the starting right tackle job. He later seamlessly transitioned back to left tackle, where he showcased his potential with impressive plays reminiscent of his rookie year. Despite committing 12 penalties and allowing 12.5 sacks in the 2023 season, Becton focused on staying healthy, which he considered his primary goal.
The Philadelphia Eagles saw an opportunity to bolster their offensive line depth by signing Becton to a one-year deal. This move not only addresses their immediate need but also provides Becton with a chance to prove himself and rebuild his career after a challenging period. With offensive line coach Jeff Stoutland backing the signing, there is optimism that Becton can thrive under his guidance, much like other success stories under Stoutland’s mentorship.
Mekhi Becton’s one-year deal with the Philadelphia Eagles signifies a fresh start for the talented offensive tackle. Despite his struggles and setbacks in recent years, Becton’s rededication and resilience have positioned him for a comeback. The Eagles’ decision to sign Becton reflects their confidence in his potential and their commitment to strengthening their offensive line. As Becton embarks on this new chapter in his career, all eyes will be on him to see if he can rise to the occasion and make the most of this opportunity.
Leave a Reply