Mekhi Becton's Journey with the Eagles: Overcoming Challenges and Seizing Opportunities
In a strategic move this past May, the Philadelphia Eagles signed former New York Jets tackle Mekhi Becton. Tasked with a new role and fresh challenges, Becton’s adaptation to the Eagles’ system has been a story filled with determination and resilience.
Becton, initially brought in to provide depth behind Jordan Mailata and Lane Johnson, found himself quickly adjusting to playing guard. The transition wasn’t just a positional shift but an entirely different realm of the offensive line mechanics. "Guard, it happens way faster. You don't have time to say, you just gotta settle with what you gotta settle with," Becton explained. "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."
Filling the Void at Left Guard
With Landon Dickerson missing from mandatory minicamp due to personal reasons and later when sidelined by a lacerated toe, Becton filled the gap at left guard. This immediate need presented Becton with an invaluable opportunity to prove his worth. Becton's performance has been promising, showing adaptability and a willingness to learn from his teammates. "I just learn from everybody all day every day. It's a fun thing to do," he expressed, reflecting on his experience in practice sessions.
Competing for the Right Guard Spot
As the Eagles' training camp progressed, Becton has been in a tight competition with Tyler Steen for the starting right guard position. Although he has not yet played right guard, he remains undeterred. "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," he declared, exuding confidence in his readiness.
Despite his history of injuries and inconsistent play with the Jets, Becton’s fresh start with the Eagles provides a platform to showcase his potential. The coaching staff has planned diligently, integrating his impressive arm length to leverage advantages 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, viewing his physical attributes as key strengths.
Embracing the Interior Line Role
With a clear understanding of the differences between the tackle and guard positions, Becton has embraced his role on the interior line. His ability to adapt has not gone unnoticed, with the Eagles considering him the first call to fill any void at the guard position. Becton maintains a focused mindset, ensuring he is prepared regardless of the situation. "If I can start, I'll start. If I don't, I'll be ready," he stated, highlighting his team-first attitude.
As training camp continues and preseason games approach, Becton’s performance under pressure will be closely scrutinized. These critical weeks will determine his role and further integration within the team. Becton acknowledged the rapid adjustments required on the interior line compared to the tackle position. "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 contrasted, showcasing his growing understanding of his new responsibilities.
Becton’s journey with the Eagles is emblematic of an athlete seizing every opportunity to redefine his career. His adaptability and readiness to step up have set a positive tone for his tenure in Philadelphia. As he succinctly put it, "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." The coming weeks will indeed reveal how Becton's role evolves, but one thing is certain: he is steadfastly committed to contributing to the Eagles’ success, one snap at a time.