Mekhi Becton, the formidable offensive lineman, has taken a fresh turn in his NFL career by joining the Philadelphia Eagles. Signed in May, Becton comes with high expectations as he transitions from a tumultuous tenure with the New York Jets to potentially becoming a linchpin in the Eagles' offensive line.
Adapting to a New Role
Although Becton was initially expected to serve as a backup for Jordan Mailata and Lane Johnson at tackle, the Eagles’ coaching staff has been keen to see what he can bring to the guard position. During the Eagles' mandatory minicamp, Becton filled in at left guard, adapting well to the interior line position.
"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," Becton expressed.
The unexpected opener at left guard came after Landon Dickerson was absent for personal reasons and subsequently sidelined by a lacerated toe. Becton took his opportunity seriously, using the minicamp as a proving ground.
Challenges and Competition
Training camp promises to be a crucial period for Becton, who will be competing to challenge Tyler Steen for the starting right guard spot. Despite having not yet played right guard, Becton is determined to seize any opportunity.
"It's an adjustment, but it's not a hard adjustment. I can do it," Becton noted. His comments reflect his readiness to face the swift nature of interior line play, where reactions must be almost instantaneous.
He added, "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."
Contrastingly, Becton finds the tackle position somewhat more forgiving, "At tackle, you got a little bit of time to see what [the defense] is doing. You have time to figure out if you're in the right spot or not."
Potential and Determination
Despite the challenging transition, Becton’s impressive arm length offers an advantage against defensive tackles. "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," he shared.
Throughout training camp and the ensuing preseason games, Becton’s ability to adapt and perform under pressure will be in the spotlight. Eagles fans and management alike will be watching closely to see if Becton can make the most of his second chance in the NFL.
Reflecting on his time with the Jets, where injuries and inconsistent play plagued his tenure, Becton seems to have embraced a newfound resilience. "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," he said.
His mindset is straightforward yet effective, "If I can start, I'll start. If I don't, I'll be ready."
Ready for the Call
For Becton, the immediate goal is clear: to be prepared and available whenever the team needs him. This level of focus and commitment could very well cement his place in the Eagles' lineup. The combination of his physical attributes and mental preparedness stands him in good stead as he strives to carve out his role.
The coming weeks will be critical in determining Becton’s position with the Eagles. As the team moves through training camp and into preseason games, the narrative will unfold, revealing whether Becton can become a mainstay on Philadelphia’s offensive line.
Only time will tell if Becton can overcome his past challenges and meet the high aspirations the Eagles have set for him.