Mekhi Becton's Fresh Start with the Eagles: A Behind-the-Scenes Look
When Mekhi Becton signed with the Philadelphia Eagles in May, the organization made clear its plans for the offensive lineman. Initially slotted to back up Jordan Mailata and Lane Johnson at tackle, Becton was also eyed for a transition inside, likely at guard. This tactical flexibility comes in the wake of his tenure with the New York Jets, marked by injuries and inconsistent play. However, the Eagles believe in his potential to contribute significantly to their lineup.
The Eagles' mandatory minicamp served as Becton's first exposure to his new team, and he was called upon to fill a crucial gap at left guard. Landon Dickerson's absence, first for personal reasons and then due to a lacerated toe, provided Becton the initial opportunity to showcase his skills in the interior line position. Despite the increased pace and different physical demands at guard, Becton has shown adaptability. "It's an adjustment, but it's not a hard adjustment. I can do it," Becton asserted, reflecting his readiness and positive outlook.
One of the key insights Becton has gained from his early days with the Eagles relates to the faster gameplay at guard. "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," he said, articulating the stark difference between playing tackle and guard.
The transition to interior play hasn't come without its learning curve. In his own words, Becton mentioned, "I just learn from everybody all day every day. It's a fun thing to do." This ethos of continuous improvement has been central to his approach, especially in the competitive atmosphere of training camp, where he has been vying to challenge Tyler Steen for the starting right guard position.
While the competition remains fierce, Becton has yet to play right guard. Nevertheless, his versatile skill set and physical attributes, such as his impressive arm length, have given him an edge. "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 remarked.
Training camp and preseason games will be pivotal in assessing Becton's ability to adjust and perform under pressure. His commitment is unwavering. "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 shared, emphasizing his readiness to seize any opportunity that comes his way.
Even as he adjusts to his new role, Becton maintains a clear focus on team success over individual accolades. "If I can start, I'll start. If I don't, I'll be ready," he declared. This team-first mentality speaks volumes about his professional attitude, especially in a landscape where personal performance is often highlighted.
His journey with the Eagles is just beginning, and the upcoming weeks will play a critical role in defining his position within the team. With his readiness to adapt, learn, and compete, Becton is poised to carve out a new chapter in his career. "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," he concluded, encapsulating the essence of his fresh start with the Philadelphia Eagles.