LA Chargers Release Veteran Guard Mekhi Becton

Move clears $9.7 million in cap space as team reshapes offensive line

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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.

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 in 2025 made him expendable as the team looks to upgrade the offensive line.

The details

Becton signed a two-year, $20 million contract with the Chargers last offseason but struggled through an injury-marred 2025 campaign, appearing in just 72% of offensive snaps and completing a full workload in only six contests. Lingering knee issues, along with a hand injury, concussion and illness, limited his impact. Performance metrics also showed 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.
  • 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.

Los Angeles Chargers

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

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The takeaway

Becton's release highlights the Chargers' commitment to overhauling their offensive line, as they look to free up significant cap space to address their needs in that area. The move comes as no surprise given Becton's injury history and declining performance in 2025, and it sets the stage for the Chargers to potentially target new offensive line talent in free agency or the upcoming draft.