One of the hardest parts of not only this season, but many recent Los Angeles Chargers seasons, has been watching quarterback Justin Herbert continually under duress. Chargers fans know this well. Herbert has not had a great track record in terms of being protected up front.
Because of that, Herbert's health is often in question.
Just this past offseason, the Chargers went out and signed what looked to be a reclamation project who had turned a corner. Tackle-turned-guard Mekhi Becton agreed to a two-year deal worth $20 million, and just like that, Chargers fans might have been fooled into thinking this team got a bargain.
Bekhton spent last year with the Philadelphia Eagles, who helped him make the switch to guard, but he has not had the same success there with L.A. In short, his days with the Chargers are numbered.
Mekhi Becton looks to be as good as gone after this season, no matter what happens with the Chargers' postseason hopes
Last year, Becton looked as though he had truly been unlocked by Philadelphia. Unfortunately, he was simply a product of that offense, the system and the strong play around him. It's a whole lot easier to shine when you've got players shining around you.
Let's be real. The Eagles are the reigning Super Bowl champions for a reason. That offense, and the line in particular, was phenomenal.
Now that the Chargers have struggled with injuries of their own, this year, Becton has not been able to positively stand out on his own. Not to mention, he's dealt with injuries of his own.
From a standout season in 2024 to being an afterthought as a starter in L.A., Becton has no chance of sticking around this coming offseason. His contract is structured in a manner that allows the Chargers to save a whopping $10 million by cutting him in 2026.
For a guy who is currently slammed with an overall grade of just 41.1 by Pro Football Focus, that seems like a total no-brainer.
Now, let's go back for a moment just to be fair. Becton has had multiple injuries this season. From a knee issue in training camp to a concussion and hand injury during the season, it has not been a smooth ride. So, health has been a factor.
Still, it doesn't seem likely that the Chargers will keep him around next year when they could go spend higher capital on his replacement via the 2026 NFL Draft, if they so choose.