Eagles Starter's Exit Prompts Concerns With Lack of Clear Replacement

The Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles have not signed a big-ticket free agent. They have certainly lost a few, including Josh Sweat and Milton Williams, who both got massive deals in NFL free agency. 

The latest to score a big deal is the big ticket himself, Mekhi Becton. The right guard who revived his career in Philly and helped protect Super Bowl LIX MVP Jalen Hurts signed a two-year, $20 million deal with the Chargers. 

While Eagles general manager manager, Howie Roseman is doing everything he can to protect the salary cap as well as keep their Super Bowl window open a big area the Eagles need a starter is now at right guard. 

Who Steps Up in Mekhi Becton’s Absence?

At least for now there are two options. Could it be as simple as plug and play? Maybe?

The frontrunner for the job is third-year lineman Tyler Steen. A former third-round pick out of Alabama, who proved capable, most notably in a Week 8 start against the Bengals where he allowed just one pressure as the Eagles racked up 37 points and 397 total yards.

For what it’s worth, the Eagles are undefeated (4-0) in games Steen has started, averaging 35 points per game and 322.8 yards of offense.

Steen is versatile and can play both guard spots as well as tackle and turned some heads during the senior bowl in 2023. 

The Kenyon Green Factor

The Eagles recently acquired former first-round pick Kenyon Green from the Texans in a trade for CJ Gardner-Johnson. Once an All-American at Texas A&M, Green struggled to find consistency in Houston, ranking as the lowest-graded guard by Pro Football Focus in 2022 and this past season. 

“I can’t really just pinpoint one thing that didn’t go my way,” Green said about his struggles in Houston after being drafted 15th overall in 2022. 

He also missed the entire 2023 season due to a shoulder injury.

Despite his struggles, Green is eager for a fresh start and is embracing the challenge ahead. "I know I wasn’t good enough in Houston, and I know I won’t last long here if that doesn’t change," Green admitted. He emphasized that working with legendary Eagles offensive line coach Jeff Stoutland, who is considered the best in the business. This could be the key to turning his career around.

“I'm going to give them everything I have,” Green said.

Green is looking to the future and sounds like he will do everything in his power to push Steen or anyone else that comes into the mix come training camp in July.

The Jeff Stoutland Effect

Stoutland has built a reputation as one of the best offensive line coaches in the NFL, and Becton’s resurgence in 2024 was a testament to his ability to develop talent. Now, Stoutland has another project in Green, a player who still has immense potential but needs refinement in his technique and consistency.

Green had a pre-draft visit with the Eagles in 2022, and the familiarity with the coaching staff could help ease his transition. “The culture here is unbelievable,” Green said. “I’m just grateful for this opportunity. It’s time to work.”

Could the Eagles Look to the 2025 NFL Draft?

While Steen and Green are the leading in-house candidates, the Eagles could still explore adding a rookie in the 2025 NFL Draft to compete for the job. With Stoutland’s track record of molding young talent, Philadelphia may see an opportunity to add depth and competition.

The Eagles as of now have eight draft picks in 2025 and Roseman is notorious for draft day trades. 

Losing Mekhi Becton could be a significant blow to the defending champs, but the Eagles have options to fill the void at right guard. Steen has shown promise, and Green is seeking redemption, and the draft could bring another contender into the mix. With Jeff Stoutland leading the way, there’s plenty of optimism that Philadelphia’s offensive line will remain one of the NFL’s best in 2025.

More Philadelphia Eagles News and Rumors: