Eagles’ Mekhi Becton on failed Jets tenure: ...

Peter Schrager

NFL Insider & NFL Reporter

Sure, Saquon Barkley would be the large headline of discarded New York first-round skills making his former group’s followers weep as he begins in Super Bowl LIX. However Mekhi Becton has fairly a narrative, too. You’ll be able to’t essentially blame the Jets for shifting on from Becton in free company a 12 months in the past.

After a promising rookie season — through which he was drafted earlier than perennial All-Professional Tristan Wirfs — Becton battled weight points, accidents and antagonistic Jets followers on-line for the majority of his New York profession. He had two separate main knee accidents, and when requested, mentioned he’d quite not transfer to proper sort out earlier than his remaining season with the Jets. So he wasn’t re-signed or given an extension, and as an alternative, signed a minimal take care of the Philadelphia Eagles.

In Philadelphia, he discovered the coach he’d lengthy been lacking. Jeff Stoutland, the professor of the famed Stoutland U, and the very best offensive line in NFL historical past, naturally took the troubled Becton below his wing and turned him right into a dominant offensive guard for the very best operating group within the NFC. Becton — who stands at 6-foot-7 and weighs nicely over 350 kilos — had by no means performed offensive guard in his life.

“It’s fairly humorous to me that I’m the place I’m at, they usually’re the place they’re at,” Becton mentioned of the Jets final week, according to the New York Post.

“I’m the identical participant I’ve all the time been,” Becton mentioned. “It’s nothing completely different. I simply didn’t have the help like I’ve now. I really feel like if you happen to give any person help and uplift them — and never tear them down day by day — they’re going to go carry out like they will.”

His star teammate Barkley obtained the headlines this season, however the Becton story is one which’s a testomony to each the participant’s dedication to proving his former employer flawed, and the ability of a greater NFL constructing.

Peter Schrager is an NFL Insider for FOX Sports activities and a bunch of “Good Morning Soccer” on NFL Community. You’ll be able to comply with him on Twitter at @PSchrags.