LA Chargers release veteran guard Mekhi Becton

Move clears $9.7 million in cap space for offensive line overhaul

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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The Los Angeles Chargers have released veteran guard Mekhi Becton, a move that will free up roughly $9.7 million in salary cap space as the team reshapes its offensive line. Becton, originally drafted 11th overall by the New York Jets in 2020, has struggled with injuries throughout his six-year career, missing nearly all of 2021 and the entirety of 2022 due to knee problems.

Why it matters

The Chargers are preparing for a broader rebuild up front on the offensive line, and Becton's release provides significant cap flexibility to address those needs. Becton's injury history and declining performance metrics made him an expendable piece as the team looks to upgrade the offensive line.

The details

Becton, 26, signed a two-year, $20 million contract with Los Angeles last offseason but struggled through an injury-marred 2025 campaign. He appeared in 15 games with 14 starts, yet was on the field for just 72% of offensive snaps and completed a full workload in only six contests. Lingering knee issues, along with a hand injury, concussion and illness, limited his impact. Performance metrics painted a difficult picture, with Becton ranking near the bottom of the league among qualifying guards in both run blocking and pass protection efficiency.

  • Becton was due a $2.5 million roster bonus on March 13 and another $1 million two days later, so releasing him now avoids those payouts.
  • The Chargers entered the offseason with approximately $86 million in cap room.

The players

Mekhi Becton

A 26-year-old veteran guard who was originally drafted 11th overall by the New York Jets in 2020. His six-year career has been defined by promise and injuries, as he missed nearly all of 2021 and the entirety of 2022 due to knee problems.

Los Angeles Chargers

The NFL team based in Los Angeles, California that is preparing for a broader rebuild up front on the offensive line.

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What’s next

The Chargers will now have significant cap space to address their offensive line needs through free agency and the draft.

The takeaway

Becton's release highlights the Chargers' commitment to overhauling their offensive line, as they prioritize financial flexibility and performance over retaining a player with an extensive injury history and declining production.