The Philadelphia Eagles, still celebrating their emphatic Super Bowl LIX win over the Kansas City Chiefs, have been dealt another blow this offseason with the departure of offensive lineman Mekhi Becton.
The veteran lineman, a key part of Philadelphia’s dominant offensive line in 2024, has officially signed a deal to join the Los Angeles Chargers.
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On March 14, the Chargers took to social media to confirm the signing, sharing a post on X (formerly Twitter) that read: “Big ticket to L.A. We’ve signed [offensive guard] Mekhi Becton.”
Becton, drafted 11th overall in 2020 by the New York Jets, entered the NFL as a highly-rated offensive tackle but struggled to stay healthy throughout his tenure in New York. After the Jets declined to exercise his fifth-year option ahead of the 2023 season, Becton joined the Eagles on a one-year contract, seeking a fresh start.
Philadelphia’s coaching staff transitioned Becton to right guard, where he quickly adapted and became a vital contributor on an offensive line that was widely regarded as one of the best in the NFL, helping pave the way to a championship.
Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk noted, “Becton‘s time with the Jets was underwhelming, largely due to injury. He signed a one-year deal with the Eagles last year after playing out his rookie contract. The Eagles moved him to right guard in 2024, and he quickly meshed with the best offensive line in the league.”
What’s Next for Becton and the Eagles?
Though contract terms have not been fully disclosed, Florio reports that Becton‘s new deal with the Chargers spans two years. Estimates from Spotrac previously valued Becton at nearly $41 million over a four-year period, or around $10.2 million per year, making his move a potentially valuable addition for Los Angeles if secured at a lower price point.
For the Eagles, Becton‘s departure creates a notable vacancy in an offensive line that was essential to both their Super Bowl run and Jalen Hurts‘ protection throughout the season.
With Becton gone, Philadelphia’s front office will likely explore free agency or the 2025 NFL Draft to find a replacement capable of maintaining the offensive line’s elite status.
Becton’s move also highlights a broader challenge for championship teams-keeping key players in place amid free agency temptations.
The Eagles had already seen other losses this offseason, making it clear that they’ll need to adjust quickly if they want to remain top contenders in the NFC.
Meanwhile, Becton gets a chance to revive his career in Los Angeles, joining a Chargers squad looking to rebuild and bolster protection around quarterback Justin Herbert. His size and versatility could offer the Chargers a major upgrade on their interior line.
Bottom line: With Becton leaving for L.A., the Eagles face a crucial offseason decision-how to fill the gap left by one of last season’s most effective linemen, while Becton looks to prove he can stay healthy and productive in a new setting.
