Depending on the results of a physical on Monday, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports that the Philadelphia Eagles are allegedly signing former New York Jets offensive tackle Mekhi Becton to a one-year, $5.5 million contract.
Mekhi Becton was the Jets’ 2020 first-round selection pick. His play never returned to what it was in his rookie season after having a highly successful initial season with the Jets due to injury struggles. According to Schefter, the Eagles anticipate that Becton will play swing tackle in 2024.
Becton has some talent, so this is an interesting pickup for the Eagles. As soon as the Jets injuries began, everything immediately became worse. Schefter claims Jeff Stoutland, the offensive line coach for Philadelphia, was in favor of signing Becton. When players on the offensive line aren’t performing up to par with other teams, Jeff Stoutland has a history of bringing in players to assist them realize their full potential. That’s why this is a noteworthy signing.
For many years, Philadelphia’s offensive line has been among the best in the league, and the team often places a strong emphasis on depth. The fact that Becton signed demonstrates that. The line will appear slightly different in the upcoming season due to Jason Kelce’s departure from the Eagles, but Stoutland has enough skill to make it work.
What position will Mekhi Becton hold with the Eagles?
It is clear from observing the Eagles’ offensive line exactly what Becton will be doing. He will be Philadelphia’s swing tackle, as Schefter said. Right to left, Jordan Mailata, Landon Dickerson, Cam Jurgens, Tyler Steen, and Lane Johnson should make up the offensive line as it is right now.
Landon Dickerson, Cam Jurgens, and Tyler Steen ought to be confined inside. Jurgens will take up Kelce’s center field role, while Dickerson recently signed a big contract.
On the opposite side of the line, Johnson is 33 years old and has struggled with injuries throughout his career, whereas Mailata is still only 27 years old and has many years left in the NFL. Despite his history of persevering through injuries, it is not implausible that Johnson will miss a few games this season.
During training camp and the preseason with the Eagles, Becton will have an opportunity to showcase his improvements; he may even get an opportunity to do so during the regular season.
