Mekhi Becton's journey with the Philadelphia Eagles during this year's training camp stands out as a testament to resilience and adaptability. Initially, he faced challenges, particularly in his matchups with defensive powerhouse Jalen Carter. However, as days progressed, Becton’s significant improvement became apparent, not only leveling the playing field with Carter but also demonstrating his potential as a key player for the Eagles’ offensive line.
The narrative of Becton's training camp is underscored by his rapid development and capability to adapt. Early on, matchups with Carter were tough, but Becton soon found his footing. Reflecting on his progress, Becton noted, "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." This quote captures not only his competitive spirit but also the essence of his growth.
As the Eagles gear up for Week 1 of the season, Becton has emerged as the frontrunner for the starting right guard position. His performance in the preseason opener against the Baltimore Ravens solidified his standing. Playing as the only first-team starter on the offense, Becton took to the field for eight snaps before making way for Tyler Steen. This game marked a milestone as it was Becton’s first experience playing right guard in a live setting. Reflecting on this experience, Becton emphasized, "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."
Integral to Becton’s adaptation and improvement has been the support from his teammates and coaches. Offensive line coach Jeff Stoutland has played a crucial role in reviewing game film and providing insights to hone Becton’s technique. Additionally, insights from teammates Cam Jurgens and Landon Dickerson have been invaluable.
Jurgens provided practical advice on the nuances of the right guard position, discussing the importance of footwork and the variability in defensive techniques. He remarked, "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." This advice has been essential in Becton’s swift adjustment.
Landon Dickerson, another key influence, commended Becton's transition and improvement. "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 observed. He added, "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 is acutely aware of the critical aspects of his position. He has focused rigorously on his footwork and hand technique, understanding their pivotal role in mastering the right guard role. "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," Becton remarked, showing his commitment to continual improvement.
Becton's trajectory during training camp has been one of steady improvement and promising potential. His ability to adapt, coupled with the guidance from his coaches and teammates, bodes well for the Eagles' offensive line as they approach the start of the season. His journey underscores the importance of resilience and teamwork in professional sports, and if his progression during training camp is any indication, Becton is poised for a breakout season.