Chargers Cut Injury-Prone Offensive Lineman Mekhi Becton

The former Jets first-round pick is looking for his fourth team in four years after being released by the Chargers.

Mar. 4, 2026 at 3:42pm

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The Los Angeles Chargers have released offensive lineman Mekhi Becton, the former first-round pick of the New York Jets who has struggled with injuries and ineffectiveness throughout his NFL career. Becton, 26, was entering the second year of a two-year, $20 million contract with the Chargers but the team will save $9.7 million by cutting him.

Why it matters

Becton was once considered a promising young tackle prospect, but his tenure with the Jets was marred by injuries and he has struggled to find consistency in the league. His release by the Chargers highlights the challenges of developing and retaining top offensive line talent in the NFL.

The details

Becton was drafted 11th overall by the Jets in 2020 but never lived up to his potential in New York. He signed with the Eagles as a free agent in 2024 and won a Super Bowl with them, but then joined the Chargers in 2025 where he took a step back as the team's offensive line struggled with injuries to other key players.

  • Becton was drafted by the Jets in 2020.
  • He signed with the Eagles as a free agent in 2024.
  • Becton joined the Chargers in 2025.
  • The Chargers are releasing Becton in March 2026 ahead of free agency.

The players

Mekhi Becton

A 26-year-old offensive lineman who was a first-round draft pick of the New York Jets in 2020 but has struggled with injuries and inconsistency throughout his NFL career.

Los Angeles Chargers

An NFL team that signed Becton in 2025 but is now releasing him after one season due to his injury history and declining performance.

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What’s next

Becton will now become a free agent and look to sign with a new team that can provide him with a fresh start and an opportunity to revive his NFL career.

The takeaway

Becton's release by the Chargers is a cautionary tale about the risks of investing heavily in injury-prone offensive linemen, even those with high draft pedigrees. Teams will need to carefully weigh the potential upside against the durability concerns when considering Becton in free agency.