PHILADELPHIA — If the Philadelphia Eagles want a left option, Mekhi Becton can probably do it.
With Jordan Mailata expected to spend more than a week with a hamstring concussion, the Philadelphia Eagles could get clever and move Becton out of the initial safe spot to take over. It’s not like Becton hasn’t performed there before.
“They told me to be prepared for it,” Becton admitted Wednesday. “I already knew it when I signed here. I would have to play wherever they wanted, so I’ll have to be ready when they call my number.”
Although the Eagles are considering a transfer, Becton said he’ll have to worry at some point if he’s asked to come out again to fill the left spot. Fred Johnson is expected to start at left this year, but Becton is better suited to the position for more than a week.
“I’m going to need some time,” Becton said. “I told one of my teammates today that if we go 1-on-1, I’m going to need a tackle rep. Make the move. Make sure my body remembers how to move that way.”
Becton said it wouldn’t take long for him to remember how to play again, but he’s been getting safe reps for months. Trading positions is a big waste, which is why Eagles offensive order coach Jeff Stoutland mostly doesn’t want to continue with more than one round of linemen.
“I don’t need that much time. I’m a professional athlete,” Becton said. “So I’ll just focus on the things I need to work on in that position. It’s just repetition. If I just do a few sets and a couple of things, I’ll be fine.”
If the Eagles moved Becton to the left position, Tyler Steen would be considered a lock until Mailata returns. Even if Becton won the on-field fight for Steen, the duo are still working with all options in place. Steen is still giving Becton some advice.
“He’s still helping me guard and stuff like that,” Becton said. “I still don’t fully understand what I’m doing. He’s still been helping me. He’s grown a lot since camp and since the injury and stuff like that. I’m excited for him.”
Becton smiled when once asked if he liked participating safely. The strides he has made at this position have given him confidence that he will have a long career in the NFL, which was an uncertainty before the Eagles gave him a second chance in the league at a new position.
If the Eagles stick with Becton for a couple of weeks, so be it. He likes its fluid process.
“The difference between day and night,” Becton said while smiling. “The first day I had guard practice to where I am now is day and night. Every day you improve 1%.”
