LA Chargers release veteran guard Mekhi Becton

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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 in 2020 by the New York Jets, 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 allows them to free up significant cap space to address those needs. Becton's injury history and declining performance metrics made him an expendable piece as the team looks to overhaul its 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, as he graded near the bottom of the league among qualifying guards.

• Becton was due a $2.5 million roster bonus on March 13 and another $1 million two days later.
• The Chargers entered the offseason with approximately $86 million in cap room.