Mekhi Becton's Journey from Struggle to Success at Eagles' Training Camp
As the Philadelphia Eagles gear up for the upcoming NFL season, all eyes have been on Mekhi Becton, whose transition to right guard has been a focal point of their training camp. Becton’s journey has been one of rapid improvement, beginning with challenges but showing significant progress as the weeks passed.
Initially, Becton faced tough battles against Jalen Carter, a defensive lineman known for his tenacity and skill. The early days of training camp saw Becton struggling in these matchups, but perseverance and hard work started to pay off. “It’s been fun. We had a little back and forth today. We went against each other and you know I’m starting to catch up to him. I’m starting to get his number. We’re starting to get each others' numbers. We working. Iron sharpens iron,” Becton reflected on his evolving face-offs with Carter.
Throughout the training camp, Becton not only leveled up his game against Carter but also emerged as a frontrunner for the starting right guard position. His trajectory from initial struggles to becoming a standout player has been noteworthy, and his performance in the preseason opener against the Baltimore Ravens solidified this narrative. During this game, Becton was the lone first-team starter on offense to take the field, playing eight snaps before being substituted by Tyler Steen.
The preseason opener marked a significant milestone – it was Becton’s first live game experience playing right guard. The transition to a new position in a competitive setting can be challenging, but Becton took it in stride. “There’s always room for improvement on anything. This was the first time I ever played right guard in a live game. Of course, I’m gonna look at the film with Stout [Eagles offensive line coach Jeff Stoutland] and figure out what we need to do. We’ll come together and combine it,” Becton said, demonstrating his commitment to continuous improvement and attention to detail.
Support from teammates has also played a crucial role in Becton’s smooth transition. Cam Jurgens, a seasoned player, lent his insights and advice, helping Becton grasp the finer points of playing as a right guard. “A lot of it's talking about angles and where I want him to be and just how different every D-lineman plays. You’re going to have two gappers, penetrators, different guys play different techniques, so figuring out how the footwork changes from each defensive guy and where that linebacker is and if we have certain motions where it may change our footwork,” Jurgens shared.
Landon Dickerson, another teammate, acknowledged Becton’s quick adaptation to the new role, noting, “A little bit of an adjustment for him, but the way he’s built, the way he can move with his long arms, his reach, his lateral quickness, I think right now he’s really excelling at that position. And it is an adjustment, but he’s handling it extremely well.” Dickerson’s praise highlights Becton’s physical capabilities and his growing proficiency in his new position.
Further praise came from Dickerson, who admired Becton’s dedication: “For him to make that transition and come inside, and the way he’s been able to succeed in doing well in practice, and come out here every day and keep getting better, is impressive.” This acknowledgment from fellow players underscores the collective belief in Becton’s potential and his critical role in the team's plans.
Becton himself remains focused on the fundamental aspects of his position. “It’s still O-line at the end of the day. I still gotta get my hands. I still gotta do my footwork. It’s just all about attacking my footwork and I did attack it.” His emphasis on foundational skills like footwork and hand positioning is a testament to his methodical approach to mastering his role.
As the Eagles prepare for Week 1 of the season, Becton's improvement and adaptability will be pivotal for the offensive line. His journey from initial struggles with Jalen Carter to becoming a key player in the Eagles' lineup illustrates his resilience and determination. The support from coaches and teammates has been invaluable, but it is Becton's work ethic and commitment to excellence that have truly set the stage for his emerging success.