As the Jets’ season nears its start, mystery surrounds one of its supposed foundational players.
Mekhi Becton, the team’s first-round pick a year ago who had a strong rookie season when he was able to stay on the field, had a rocky training camp followed by a concussion as he prepares for his second season. It’s also his first in Mike LaFleur’s offensive system.
Speaking to the media Friday, the left tackle raised eyebrows with a few surprising comments. He admitted his summer didn’t go as planned, then said criticism from LaFleur caught him off guard, though he hasn’t spoken to the Jets’ new offensive coordinator about it.
“Not going to lie, I was really confused about it,” Becton said after practice. “But it is what it is. Yeah, I’ve overcome it.”
On Aug. 19, LaFleur addressed Becton’s problems up to that point.
“Mekhi is going through some things right now. He’s not playing at his best and he knows that,” the offensive coordinator said then.
Becton said those comments were never explained to him, but he does feel he has the trust of the coaching staff, even after a subpar training camp. The summer was a struggle for Becton, who was frequently beaten by defensive end Carl Lawson before the free agent acquisition suffered a season-ending knee injury. He was also victimized in the two joint workouts with the Packers by outside linebacker Preston Smith.
“I could’ve been better, but it’s OK,” Becton said. “I missed OTAs. I feel like that’s what really messed me up, so I’m not going to miss OTAs again.”
Becton practiced fully all week and first-year coach Robert Saleh said he will start in the opener against the Panthers in Carolina.
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