Eagles Sign Former First-Round Bust Immediately Following NFL Draft

Now that the 2024 NFL Draft is over, teams are turning their attention back to free agents. This includes undrafted players, as well as veteran players who are still on the market. The Philadelphia Eagles are no exception. After the Eagles went through a successful draft where they addressed their needs on the defensive side of the ball, general manager Howie Roseman wasted no time filling the remaining holes on the offensive end.

According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, former first-round pick Mekhi Becton and the Eagles are signing a one-year deal worth up to $5.5 million.

Eagles Sign OT Mekhi Becton in Free Agency

Becton's career with the New York Jets was off to a great start in 2020. As a rookie, he showed big potential as a run blocker and pass blocker, with an ability to level defenders with his impressive size, strength, and athleticism.

Then, things started going downhill for him really fast. He basically missed two full seasons with two major knee injuries. He came back in 2023 and played 95% of snaps for the Jets but his performance left plenty to be desired. He struggled in a big way both in terms of speed and strength.

This created a ton of tension between Becton and the Jets organization. The top brass of the organization was critical of his conditioning throughout his tenure with the team. And now that they have added star tackle Tyron Smith, as well as Olu Fashanu in the offseason, they didn't need Becton anymore.

Becton is still only 25 years old. If he can regain his conditioning and fitness, he could be an intriguing depth option for the Eagles under the masterful offensive line coach Jeff Stoutland.

Philadelphia currently has Jordan Mailata at left tackle, and Lane Johnson starting at right tackle. Becton will have a role as the swing tackle and could potentially eventually take over a starting role over Johnson if things go the way the Eagles are hoping for.

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