Robert Saleh provides encouraging comments on New York Jets tackle Mekhi Becton
On Thursday, the New York Jets placed five players on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list. Included in the group was offensive tackle Mekhi Becton.
As one would expect, Becton’s presence on the list was met with groans from many Jets fans. Fortunately for those concerned fans, Jets head coach Robert Saleh has some promising news for you.
During an interview with CBS Sports HQ on Thursday, Saleh seemed more optimistic about Becton’s status than he has at any point this offseason.
“Mekhi’s been really good over the past 40 days,” Saleh said. “He’s been in the building every day. He’s been putting in the work. He’s got no restrictions from my understanding with regards to the knee. His weight’s getting down. He looks really good, and we’re really excited about the direction he’s heading.”
#Jets HC Robert Saleh says OT Mekhi Becton (@BigTicket73) has been in the building ‘every day’ + he has ‘no restrictions from my understanding with the knee’ + ‘his weight is getting down’ + ‘he looks really good’: 🎥 @CBSSportsHQ #TakeFlight #JetsCamp @TommyTranTV pic.twitter.com/hGDKDk52yk
— Paul Andrew Esden Jr (@BoyGreen25) July 21, 2022
Becton, who is still only 23 years old, is looking to build on the promise he showed in a 2020 rookie season that featured great performances against edge rushers like Bradley Chubb and Joey Bosa. Despite being considered a high-ceiling, low-floor prospect who would likely undergo some major growing pains, he looked more pro-ready than expected, giving him tantalizing long-term potential.
The former 11th overall pick is set to compete against George Fant for the Jets’ starting left tackle job, with the loser of the competition settling in on the right side. Although Becton has not played any snaps at right tackle in the NFL, he gained plenty of experience at right tackle in college, playing 778 snaps at the position in his Cardinals career.
Feels like just a case of Saleh being more careful about his choice of words.
I am 100% behind giving Becton the benefit of the doubt THIS SEASON. If this is not an extremely productive year I am done.
This actually doesn’t make me feel much better. He said he’s losing weight which means in spite of the injury and knowing he is competing for the LT spot he still came back out of shape. I don’t know him at all, he could be a great guy but I don’t trust him. I’m hoping they can get him looking good and ship him out for a more reliable asset. For all of the “love” the OL has received in the off-season in my opinion they are equally as close to being a top 10 OL as they are to being in the lower tier. They are one injury away, at the OT spots. I think it’s a high potential but fragile group.