The Philadelphia Eagles made a significant move this offseason by signing Mekhi Becton, a versatile offensive lineman initially intended to serve as a swing tackle behind Jordan Mailata and Lane Johnson. However, circumstances have pushed Becton into a more prominent role.
Opportunity Arises from Injuries
With Tyler Steen suffering an unfortunate ankle injury, a void emerged at the starting right guard position. This vacancy presented Becton with an unexpected opportunity to showcase his abilities in a new role. During his first practice with the first team, Becton lined up as the right guard and showed his mettle by neutralizing the formidable Jalen Carter during 11-on-11 drills.
“I’m looking forward to that. Mekhi has had a good camp so far, and looking forward to getting him some work next to Lane [Johnson] and continuing to work forward with that,” remarked Eagles coach Nick Sirianni, expressing his optimism about Becton’s potential to excel at the guard position.
Becton’s Early Challenges and Adaptability
Becton’s journey hasn’t been entirely smooth. He did not participate in the initial days of training camp, but he utilized that time wisely. Becton remained engaged and absorbed valuable lessons from his teammates. This determination and mindset impressed his peers and coaching staff alike.
“The first few days he wasn’t practicing, but he was definitely in my ear the whole time and telling me what I was doing wrong. He’s been a great help,” Becton shared, illustrating his commitment to his team despite the early setback.
Landon Dickerson, the Eagles' left guard, echoed these sentiments, highlighting Becton’s value and versatility. “I think Mekhi is doing great. He’s had to bounce around a few positions. We had some guys get banged up. Nothing different than what happens during the season, right?” Dickerson commented, underlining the inherent challenges and fluidity of an NFL season.
Enhancing the Offensive Line
Becton’s ability to play multiple positions makes him an invaluable asset for the Eagles. “We have a guy that can swing at both guard and tackle, can play both guard spots. That’s a lot of value in the NFL. He’s able to play four out of five positions,” Dickerson noted, emphasizing the strategic advantage of having a player with Becton’s flexibility.
Indeed, Becton has embraced his role and the accompanying responsibilities. "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. If I can start, I'll start. If I don't, I'll be ready," Becton asserted, showcasing his readiness and team-first mentality.
Looking Forward
Although the Eagles have not disclosed the duration of Tyler Steen's absence, Becton's performance and attitude suggest he is ready to fill the gap effectively. His integration into the first team and immediate impact during drills bode well for the Eagles’ offensive line, promising depth and strength. Whether serving as a starter or a reliable backup, Becton’s presence fortifies the unit.
As the season progresses, the Eagles will rely on Becton to adapt and potentially step up in various roles. His early challenges, coupled with his ability to learn and perform under pressure, make him a player to watch in the upcoming games. The Eagles’ investment in Becton seems poised to pay dividends, enhancing their offensive line dynamics and contributing to the team’s overall success.