Chargers' Mekhi Becton 'sky's the limit' on being paired with Joe Alt

EL SEGUNDO, Calif. — During the week of the NFL Draft, the Los Angeles Chargers will begin phase one of their offseason program. Notable players in attendance include newly acquired Tyler Conklin, Joe Alt, Justin Herbert, and Mekhi Becton at The Bolt on Tuesday afternoon.

As Jim Harbaugh begins his second year as the Chargers' head coach, it is well-known that he values an elite offensive line, especially considering how last season ended.

The Chargers signed Super Bowl Champion Mekhi Becton to a two-year deal worth $20 million this offseason, following his recent seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles. Originally an offensive tackle, Becton was converted to guard last year, a decision made by Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni. This transition proved beneficial as it improved the right side of the field for Saquon Barkley.

“They both have their pros and cons, but yeah, I enjoy playing guard for sure, it’s fun,” Becton said. 

With Joe Alt now playing on the right side, pairing him with Becton will be exciting to watch in the upcoming season for the Chargers. Becton made a significant contribution to the Eagles, serving as a reliable interior pass protector throughout the 2024 NFL season. He had a pressure percentage allowed of 6.3% on true dropback passes, ranking 14th among all starting NFL guards. Overall, Becton allowed a total of 15 pressures on drop back passes, which averages to less than one per game last season.

Becton contributed value not only to the passing game but also to the running game. Additionally, the Chargers signed running back Najee Harris from the Pittsburgh Steelers during the offseason. With his addition to the backfield, the right side of the field should be wide open for Harris to carry the ball. The Eagles averaged the fourth-highest yards before contact per carry in the NFL, with 2.2 yards gained in the right gap.

The right side of the offensive line will feature Becton, who stands 6 feet 8 inches tall and weighs 360 pounds, alongside Alt, also 6 feet 8 inches tall but weighing 320 pounds. Becton is two years post-knee surgery, and he recognizes that his progress over the past year demonstrates his commitment to staying available for games. Together, Becton and Alt create a formidable duo that opposing defensive lines will find intimidating. While Becton doesn't fear Alt, he finds him to be a really funny teammate.

“The sky’s the limit,” Becton said of the potential duo on the field. “He’s like a dancing bear, really light on his feet.”

The Chargers experienced favorable luck during free agency, as Becton mentioned that the process was surprisingly different from his conversations with his agent. 

“Wasn’t what I expected it to be,” Becton said. “I’m where I’m supposed to be,”

Becton, who turned 26 a few days ago, is thrilled to be in Los Angeles after spending the last few weeks training and moving from New Jersey. Despite all the traveling, he managed to attend WrestleMania 41 in Las Vegas over the weekend. He reflected on his childhood excitement and admitted to shedding a tear of joy while being in the audience.

“I was excited as hell,” Becton said. “The first day’s main event was crazy, that shit was dope,”

Becton was happy to see John Cena win his 17th championship, breaking the WWE record. He hadn’t anticipated Cena’s victory, as he believed the organization would ‘do him dirty’ and make him retire right after WrestleMania. When asked if he would ever step into the ring in the future, Becton responded thoughtfully.

“No, sir,” Becton said. “Tell Triple H to call me.”