Mekhi Becton Adjusts and Impresses at Eagles’ Training Camp
Philadelphia Eagles' recent addition, Mekhi Becton, has been making waves since signing with the team in May. Originally brought on to serve as a backup for tackles Jordan Mailata and Lane Johnson, Becton has shown versatility and adaptability that the Eagles' coaching staff cannot ignore.
Though initially earmarked as a tackle, the Eagles have planned for Becton to play at guard—a shift that hasn’t been without its challenges. Becton arrived with a history of injuries and inconsistent play during his tenure with the New York Jets, but the change in environment seems to have rejuvenated his career.
During the mandatory minicamp, Becton stepped up to fill the gap at left guard, a role vacated when Landon Dickerson was absent due to personal reasons and subsequently sidelined by a lacerated toe. His performance has solidified his position as a prime candidate for the interior offensive line, an area where he had previously not played much.
"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 said, displaying both confidence and readiness to contribute wherever needed.
Adapting to the Interior
Becton's transition to the guard position has been a significant adjustment, but one he has embraced. "It's an adjustment, but it's not a hard adjustment. I can do it," Becton remarked. While tackle positions allow a bit more time to read the defense, the guard position demands quicker reactions and decision-making.
"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," Becton explained, offering a glimpse into the mental and physical rigors of operating on the interior line.
Despite the challenges, Becton has shown an eagerness to learn and adapt. "I just learn from everybody all day every day. It's a fun thing to do," he shared, acknowledging the value of continuous improvement and teamwork.
Eyes on the Starting Spot
Becton's adaptability has put him in line to challenge Tyler Steen for the starting right guard spot during training camp. Although he hasn't yet played right guard, he's ready to step up as needed. "If I can start, I'll start. If I don't, I'll be ready," Becton asserted, embodying a team-first mentality.
The Eagles' coaching staff has noted Becton's impressive arm length, a physical trait that provides advantages against 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," he noted, hinting at his potential to excel in his new role.
As training camp and preseason games progress, Becton will be closely watched to see if he can sustain his performance and adjust under game conditions. He is focused on being prepared whenever his team needs him, saying, "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."
Final Preparations
The upcoming weeks will be critical in determining Becton's role with the Eagles. His ability to seamlessly transition between different positions and his readiness to compete at a high level will be essential factors. As Becton continues to hone his skills, the Eagles may very well find that they have acquired a versatile lineman who can make significant contributions in multiple roles.
The narrative of Mekhi Becton's career is still being written, but his early days with the Eagles suggest that he is ready to turn the page on his past inconsistencies and injuries. With a renewed focus and the backing of a supportive coaching staff, Becton is poised to carve out an important role on the Eagles' offensive line.