Mekhi Becton Joins the Eagles: Adapting and Competing
In a strategic move this past May, the Philadelphia Eagles signed Mekhi Becton, aiming to bolster both their offensive line depth and versatility. Becton, formerly with the New York Jets, brought with him a mix of potential and skepticism, primarily due to injury concerns and inconsistent performance during his tenure in New York. Initially expected to serve as a backup for tackles Jordan Mailata and Lane Johnson, the Eagles have repositioned their plans, earmarking Becton for the guard position.
Despite Becton’s history of injuries and ups and downs on the field, the Eagles have tapped into his abilities to fill a crucial gap at left guard during the team's mandatory minicamp. With Landon Dickerson temporarily absent for personal reasons and later sidelined by a lacerated toe, Becton seized the opportunity to showcase his adaptability 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 said confidently.
Training camp has not only tested Becton's resilience but also his versatility. He has been actively competing to challenge Tyler Steen for the starting right guard spot. Though he hasn't played right guard yet, he remains focused on being ready whenever the team might need him. “It's an adjustment, but it's not a hard adjustment. I can do it,” Becton assured, displaying a positive attitude towards his new role. His willingness to adapt and absorb knowledge stands out, as he mentions, “I just learn from everybody all day every day. It's a fun thing to do.”
The transition from tackle to guard comes with its own set of challenges, an aspect Becton is well aware of. Reflecting on the difference, he shared, “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.” This rapid pace at the guard position contrasts with the relative luxury of time he had at tackle: “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.”
Becton's physical attributes, particularly his impressive arm length, provide a natural advantage over typical defensive tackles—an edge he keenly acknowledges. “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 remarked, indicating the potential benefits his unique build could bring to his new role.
The coming weeks will be critical in determining Becton's role with the Eagles. Training camp and preseason games will be the true litmus test for his ability to adjust and perform under pressure. Through it all, Becton remains focused and steadfast. “If I can start, I'll start. If I don't, I'll be ready,” he stated, embodying an unwavering readiness to contribute, regardless of the role handed to him. His words echo a sense of preparedness and adaptability: “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.”
Mekhi Becton’s journey with the Philadelphia Eagles is one marked by adaptation, learning, and resilience. As he continues to evolve and compete within the team, his ability to transition from tackle to guard will be closely watched by fans and coaches alike. The next few weeks will not only define his role but also shape the dynamics of the Eagles' offensive line, a critical component of their quest for success in the upcoming season.