The Philadelphia Eagles Bolster Offensive Line with Mekhi Becton
In a move that has stirred excitement among Philadelphia Eagles fans, the team has officially announced the signing of Mekhi Becton, a versatile and formidable addition to their offensive line. Becton, originally brought in to serve as a swing tackle for starters Jordan Mailata and Lane Johnson, has quickly made a considerable impact.
With Tyler Steen's recent ankle injury creating a vacancy at the starting right guard position, Becton has stepped up to fill the gap. During his first practice with the first team, Becton lined up as the right guard and made an immediate impression by neutralizing Jalen Carter in 11-on-11 drills. Although he didn't participate in the initial days of training camp, Becton used his time on the sidelines to remain engaged and learn from his teammates, preparing himself to seize the opportunity when it came.
Eagles coach Nick Sirianni expressed his enthusiasm for Becton's progress, stating, "I'm looking forward to that. Mekhi has had a good camp so far and looking forward to getting him some work next to Lane [Johnson] and continuing to work forward with that."
Teammate Landon Dickerson, who plays as the Eagles' left guard, shared similar sentiments about Becton's adaptability and determination. "I think Mekhi is doing great. He's had to bounce around a few positions. We had some guys get banged up. Nothing different than what happens during the season, right?" said Dickerson. He further emphasized the value Becton brings to the team, adding, "We have a guy that can swing at both guard and tackle, can play both guard spots. That's a lot of value in the NFL. He's able to play four out of five positions."
Becton's versatility is indeed a prized asset in the NFL, where injuries and roster changes are inevitable. His ability to seamlessly transition between multiple positions offers the Eagles flexibility and depth, which are crucial for maintaining a robust offensive line throughout the grueling season. Reflecting on his integration into the team, Becton mentioned the support he received from his teammates, particularly during his initial days on the sidelines. "The first few days he wasn't practicing, but he was definitely in my ear the whole time and telling me what I was doing wrong. He's been a great help," he mentioned.
Becton's positive attitude and readiness to contribute whenever called upon have not gone unnoticed. "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. If I can start, I'll start. If I don't, I'll be ready," Becton asserted with confidence.
While the Eagles have not disclosed the duration of Tyler Steen's absence, Becton remains a valuable component of the team's second-team offensive line. His presence has undoubtedly fortified the offensive unit, providing both immediate support and long-term potential.
As the Eagles continue to navigate the challenges of the season, Mekhi Becton’s adaptability and skill set promise to be instrumental. Whether stepping in as a starter or providing reliable backup, Becton's impact on the field is poised to be significant. Fans and teammates alike will be watching closely, eager to see how this talented lineman further integrates into the team's dynamic and contributes to their success.