Training Camp Challenges and Progress
Mekhi Becton, who began training camp with the Philadelphia Eagles, faced initial struggles matched up against Jalen Carter. However, as the camp progressed, Becton’s resilience and dedication began to shine through. He gradually balanced his matchups with Carter, flipping the narrative from struggle to competition. Becton himself 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."
Role Transition
Becton’s journey toward securing the starting right guard position for the Eagles has been met with challenges but also significant improvement. The preseason opener against the Baltimore Ravens was pivotal as it marked Becton’s first live game in this new role. He was the only first-team starter on the offense to take the field, a task he tackled with determination, playing eight snaps before Tyler Steen took over. Reflecting on his performance, Becton shared, "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."
Support and Guidance
Throughout this period of adjustment, Becton has not been alone. Cam Jurgens has been a source of advice, shedding light on the intricacies of the right guard position. Jurgens discussed the details of their conversations, saying, "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."
Landon Dickerson also acknowledged Becton's swift adaptation and praised his ongoing success. "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 expressed his admiration for Becton's steady improvement and commitment, adding, "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."
Focus on Fundamentals
Becton's approach to mastering his new role has been meticulous, concentrating on refining his footwork and hand techniques. "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 stated. His development in these fundamental areas will be crucial in solidifying the Eagles' offensive line as the season unfolds.
Becton’s performance and adaptability will be key assets for the Eagles as they approach Week 1. His journey from struggling in training camp to potentially starting right guard exemplifies a blend of talent, hard work, and effective mentorship. The narrative of his preseason underscores the importance of both individual commitment and team support in achieving success in the NFL.