Mekhi Becton (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II, File)
AP Photos
FLORHAM PARK — Much may have been made about New York Jets left tackle Mekhi Becton’s stance on playing a different position in 2023, but things have certainly changed.
Following the first full week of work where Becton was on the practice field, the former first-round pick made it clear that he didn’t care where he would play – he just wanted to be among the players taking the field against Buffalo in September.
“My goal is to be a starter in Week 1. Wherever they want me, I just want to be on the field,” Becton stated.
The tackle’s comments are a far cry from where he was just a few months ago. Becton had publicly stated his desire to be solely a left tackle this season while also blaming the Jets coaching staff for putting him at right tackle, a position that he believed caused the knee injury last year that cost him the 2023 season.
Becton has since walked back both comments stating his commitment to playing where the team needs him to be, as well as the reason for the avulsion fracture of his right kneecap. He says that he received the wrong surgery from his 2021 injury and that put more pressure on his knee. That ultimately meant a small position change was simply the straw that broke the camel’s back.
Since being back with the team though in 2023, Becton has focused on becoming not just a better football player, but a healthier one.
“These past few days have been the best I’ve felt in a while,” the former Louisville product said. “Feeling confident, feeling comfortable. I’m ready to go.”
The Jets’ coaching staff has agreed with Becton’s statements. Head coach Robert Saleh has seen an improvement in the young tackle’s play that comes with getting back into playing shape.
“This is about him getting comfortable with his knee. His talent is undeniable. His power is undeniable. His knowledge of the game is undeniable. He’s gotten a lot better over…
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