Mekhi Becton's Versatile Journey with the Eagles
In an offseason move that raised eyebrows and expectations, Mekhi Becton signed with the Philadelphia Eagles in May. Initially, he was slated to serve as a backup for stalwarts Jordan Mailata and Lane Johnson at the tackle positions. However, the Eagles also have plans for Becton to compete and potentially fill the void at guard, showcasing the versatility that could make him an asset as the season progresses.
Becton's tenure with the New York Jets was marked by a challenging mix of injuries and inconsistent performance, which perhaps contributed to his departure and subsequent signing with the Eagles. Despite those challenges, Becton is poised and ready for a fresh start with Philadelphia. During the Eagles' mandatory minicamp, he stepped in to fill the gap at left guard, adapting quickly to the new role, especially in the absence of Landon Dickerson, who was sidelined due to personal reasons and a lacerated toe.
Learning the intricacies of the interior line position is no small feat, but Becton appears undeterred. "It's an adjustment, but it's not a hard adjustment. I can do it," he confidently remarked. His ability to adapt is crucial, given that he hasn’t played right guard yet, a position he is now competing for against Tyler Steen in training camp.
The shift from tackle to guard is notable. At tackle, players have a bit more time to react and adjust to defensive arrangements, a point Becton himself highlighted. "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," he explained. In contrast, playing guard demands quicker reactions. As Becton described, "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." These adjustments underscore the mental and physical dexterity required to transition between these positions effectively.
Becton's impressive arm length also gives him a unique advantage against typical 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," Becton noted. This physical attribute could prove beneficial as he navigates his new role on the interior line.
Training camp and preseason games will serve as critical tests for Becton, gauging his ability to adjust and perform under the pressure. For now, his focus remains on preparedness and seizing opportunities as they arise. "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 asserted, displaying a readiness to contribute whenever needed.
The coming weeks will be instrumental in determining Becton's role with the Eagles, whether as a starter or a reliable depth piece. "If I can start, I'll start. If I don't, I'll be ready," he stated, emphasizing his adaptable mindset. His readiness and willingness to learn are evident in his approach to the game. "I just learn from everybody all day every day. It's a fun thing to do," Becton shared, highlighting his dedication to improving and evolving as a player.
As the Eagles continue their preparations for the upcoming season, Becton's journey will be one to watch. His ability to adapt, combined with his physical attributes and mindset, positions him as a potential key contributor to the Philadelphia offensive line. Whether filling in gaps or challenging for a starting role, Becton is poised to make an impact. "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," Becton concluded, encapsulating his readiness for the challenges and opportunities ahead with the Eagles.