The New York Jets drafted Mekhi Becton with the No. 11 pick hoping the 2020 first-round selection would be an anchor at left tackle for the next decades. As things continue to spiral out of control for the franchise, things aren’t looking good for Becton.
New York’s 6-foot-7 left tackle faced criticism for his weight entering training camp. Yahoo Sports’ NFL insider Charles Robinson reported in August that Becton’s weight ballooned over 363 lbs. and he was getting beat off the first step in drills.
Becton seemed to get things under control, starting in the Week 1 opener to the Carolina Panthers. But he suffered a knee injury, sending him to injured reserve and creating a hole on the left side. With the second-year tackle sidelined, it seems the Jets are concerned about him once again.
According to Pro Football Network’s Tony Pauline, sources inside the organization said the Jets aren’t happy with Becton thus far. Several people working with the team believe the 22-year-old taps out of plays and isn’t showing the work ethic required to be a quality NFL player.
Specifically, one of the biggest issues is his weight. Showing up to training camp heavier than he even was at the NFL Scouting Combine, the inability to maintain playing shape is a concern. Another problem area for New York is reportedly Becton’s maturity.
New York certainly won’t be giving up on its talented player this early in his NFL career. It can take time for offensive tackles to develop and learn how to achieve success at the highest level. Becton’s physical abilities made him a top-15 talent in the 2020 NFL Draft and the Jets are going to give him every opportunity to live up to his draft status.
If things don’t work out, it will just add to the growing list of misses by general manager Joe Douglas that could land him on the hot seat before long.
