The Philadelphia Eagles have made an upgrade to their offensive line on Sunday.
After spending his first four NFL seasons with the New York Jets, offensive tackle Mekhi Becton is embarking on a new chapter.
According to Becton’s agents, as reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the player intends to finalize a one-year, $5.5 million contract with the Philadelphia Eagles, pending a physical examination scheduled for Monday.
“Offensive line help in Philadelphia: Former Jets first-round draft choice Mekhi Becton plans to sign a one-year deal worth up to $5.5 million with the Eagles, pending a physical Monday, per his agents Alan Herman and Jared Fox. Becton is expected to be the Eagles swing tackle.”
Schefter noted that Becton is slated to serve as Philadelphia’s backup tackle. He will be positioned behind seasoned left tackle Jordan Mailata and five-time Pro Bowl right tackle Lane Johnson.
Selected as the 11th overall pick in the 2020 draft, Becton’s tenure in New York was marked by highs and lows.
While he showcased promise during his rookie year, injuries sidelined him for the entirety of the 2021 and 2022 seasons.
Returning to action in 2023, Becton’s performance fluctuated, with him participating in 95 percent of the team’s offensive plays but also accruing 12 penalties—ranking him second in the NFL for penalties accepted.
With just 31 games played over his four-year career, Becton entered unrestricted free agency after the Jets opted not to exercise his fifth-year option.
During the offseason, New York bolstered its tackle position by acquiring veterans Tyron Smith and Morgan Moses.
Additionally, they selected Olumuyiwa Fashanu, a left tackle from Penn State, with the 11th pick in this year’s NFL draft.
Despite these developments, Becton still possesses the size and skills necessary to excel as an offensive tackle in the NFL.
Looking ahead to the 2024 season, the 6’7″ powerhouse aims to demonstrate his abilities and durability, viewing it as a “prove-it” year before once again hitting the open market next offseason.
