Mekhi Becton has been one of the most intriguing offensive linemen of the past decade in the NFL — a towering 6‑foot‑7, 363‑pound former first‑round pick whose career has swung between promise, adversity, and adaptation. From being drafted 11th overall to earning a Super Bowl ring with the Philadelphia Eagles, Becton’s NFL journey has been defined by performance, injuries, position changes, and fluctuating Pro Football Focus (PFF) grades.
Early Career and Draft Profile
Becton was selected by the New York Jets with the No. 11 pick in the 2020 NFL Draft after an impressive collegiate career at Louisville. Initially projected as a cornerstone left tackle, many analysts praised his raw strength, imposing size, and pass‑protection potential. Unfortunately, injuries would soon become a defining theme early in his career.
Contract History
New York Jets (2020–2023)
Becton signed his rookie deal as a top‑15 pick with significant expectations to anchor the Jets’ offensive line.
Philadelphia Eagles (2024)
In April 2024, Becton agreed to a one‑year, $2.75 million contract with the Eagles. His role expanded as he transitioned from tackle to guard — a move that revived his career and culminated in a Super Bowl victory.
Los Angeles Chargers (2025)
After his breakthrough season with Philadelphia, Becton signed a two‑year, $20 million contract with the Los Angeles Chargers, aiming to bolster protection for quarterback Justin Herbert. However, the deal included only about $6.9 million guaranteed due to lingering health concerns.
As of March 2026, reports indicate the Chargers plan to release Becton to save roughly $9.7 million in cap space, making him a free agent once again.
Stats & Performance Overview
During his 2025 season with the Chargers, Becton played 734 offensive snaps but struggled mightily. According to PFF:
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Overall Grade: 35.7
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Run Block Grade: 34.3
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Pass Block Grade: 45.2
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Ranked 79th out of 81 qualified guards in overall grade.
This marked a sharp decline from his 2024 PFF success with the Eagles, where he earned a 70.7+ grade and ranked around the top 20 among guards — a key contributor to Philadelphia’s Super Bowl run.
PFF Grade: The Tale of Two Seasons
Philadelphia Eagles (2024)
Becton’s 2024 performance at guard was widely praised by analytics outlets, with PFF assigning him one of the better grades among interior linemen. His ability to run‑block and sustain blocks helped Philadelphia’s offensive balance.
Los Angeles Chargers (2025)
In contrast, his Chargers season saw historically low grades in both run and pass blocking — a performance shortfall that contributed to his anticipated release.
Injuries: A Career Challenge
Becton’s NFL journey has been significantly impacted by injuries:
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In 2021, a knee injury in Week 1 ended his season early.
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In 2022, a separate knee issue knocked him out for the entire year.
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Additional health setbacks including concussions and knee soreness have affected his consistency in later seasons.
These injuries contributed to his initial struggles in New York and remain a key factor in team evaluations, long‑term contract negotiations, and on‑field availability.
Eagles Legacy
During Becton’s lone season with the Eagles, he played a vital part in one of the league’s top offensive fronts and helped the franchise secure a Super Bowl championship. His story in Philly remains one of resilience — transforming from an oft‑injured tackle to a dependable guard at a crucial time.
Conclusion
Mekhi Becton’s career encapsulates both the hope and heartbreak of professional football. From rising draft expectations to injury setbacks, and from a Super Bowl‑winning performance with the Eagles to a challenging season in Los Angeles, his journey is a fascinating case study in talent, adaptation, and perseverance. As the 2026 offseason unfolds, Becton’s next destination — whether a reclamation opportunity with a new team or a return to Philadelphia — will be a story worth following.
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