Mekhi Becton's journey in the Philadelphia Eagles training camp has been one marked by significant progress and adaptation. The camp began with Becton struggling in matchups against the formidable Jalen Carter. However, perseverance and dedicated effort saw Becton dramatically improve his performance as camp went on.
Becton, who has been vying for the starting position at right guard, has showcased his determination and skill. He soon began balancing his encounters with Carter, demonstrating a growing proficiency and understanding of his role. Becton's improvement did not go unnoticed, positioning him as the frontrunner for the starting right guard spot as the Eagles gear up for Week 1.
His progress was put to the test during the preseason opener against the Baltimore Ravens. In this game, Becton was the lone first-team starter on the offense to take the field, providing him a valuable opportunity to experience game-time conditions at right guard for the first time. He participated in eight snaps, setting the stage before Tyler Steen took over.
Adjusting to a New Position
Reflecting on his performance in the game, Becton emphasized the importance of reviewing game film with offensive line coach Jeff Stoutland. "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 remarked.
Cam Jurgens, a teammate, highlighted the intricacies involved in playing the right guard position. "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 explained, offering Becton invaluable advice and insight.
Praised by Peers
Support from his colleagues has been a crucial element in Becton's swift adaptation. Landon Dickerson, another Eagles player, acknowledged Becton's transition. "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 noted.
Dickerson's praise didn't stop there. He continued, "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."
A Focus on Fundamentals
Becton’s improvement is rooted in his dedication to mastering the fundamentals of the right guard role. He has concentrated on refining his footwork and hand techniques, essential skills for any offensive linemen. Becton himself acknowledged the importance of this focus, stating, "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."
Summarizing his progress against Jalen Carter, Becton expressed a sense of accomplishment mixed with continuing ambition. "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 other’s numbers. We working. Iron sharpens iron," he said.
As the Eagles’ season opener draws near, Becton's marked improvement and commitment to his new role at right guard position him as a vital component of the team's offensive line. His adaptability and the support from his teammates suggest he is well-prepared to meet the challenges ahead and excel in the upcoming season.