Mekhi Becton's Transformation: From Early Struggles to Right Guard Frontrunner for the Eagles
The Philadelphia Eagles training camp opened with Mekhi Becton facing some challenges, particularly in his matchups against Jalen Carter. Initially, Becton found the transition difficult, but his resilience and hard work began to pay off as camp progressed. This narrative of struggle and improvement has not only been a testament to Becton's adaptability but also a highlight for the Eagles as they prepare for the upcoming season.
At the outset, Becton's difficulties against Carter could have been seen as a cause for concern. However, the young player demonstrated significant progress over time. "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 noted, reflecting on his improving performance.
As training camp unfolded, Becton began to hold his own against Carter, showcasing his determination to master the right guard position. His efforts have not gone unnoticed, positioning him as the leading candidate for the starting role as the team gears up for Week 1. The preseason opener against the Baltimore Ravens further solidified Becton's standing. In this game, he was the only first-team starter on offense to see the field, playing eight snaps before giving way to Tyler Steen.
This particular game was a significant milestone for Becton as it marked his first time playing right guard in a live setting. "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 explained, underscoring the importance of continuous learning and improvement.
Support from teammates and coaches has been instrumental in Becton's transition. Offensive line coach Jeff Stoutland's film sessions have provided crucial insights, while fellow players like Cam Jurgens and Landon Dickerson have offered valuable advice. Jurgens shared his thoughts on the mentoring process, highlighting the complexity and variability of defensive line techniques. "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 elaborated.
Landon Dickerson echoed the positive sentiments, praising Becton's quick adaptation to his new role. "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 remarked. He continued to commend Becton's persistent efforts, saying, "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."
Becton himself recognizes the essential aspects of his position, focusing on his footwork and hand technique. "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," he asserted. This mindset, along with his physical attributes and willingness to learn, has propelled Becton from a player struggling in early camp matchups to a key figure in the Eagles' offensive line strategy.
As the Eagles continue their preparations, Becton's development will undoubtedly be a focal point. His journey from early struggles to becoming a frontrunner for the starting right guard position exemplifies the hard work and determination required to succeed at the highest levels of professional football. The support from his coaches and teammates, coupled with his own commitment to improving his craft, bodes well for both Becton and the Eagles as they look forward to the new season.