Chargers to Release Mekhi Becton in Cost-Cutting Move The Los Angeles Chargers are set to release veteran offensive tackle Mekhi Becton, according to sources close to the team. The move is reportedly part of a larger effort by the organization to cut costs and get under the salary cap for the upcoming season. Becton, 26, was signed to a three-year, $39 million contract in March 2022 but has struggled with injuries and performance issues throughout his time with the Chargers. Despite being considered one of the top free agent signings of last offseason, Becton's production on the field has been disappointing, and his salary became increasingly difficult for the team to justify. The release comes as no surprise to those familiar with the situation. Becton's play had dropped off significantly since his first season in Los Angeles, where he started 15 games at left tackle and helped protect quarterback Justin Herbert. However, over the past two seasons, Becton's effectiveness has been compromised by a combination of injuries, including a knee injury that required surgery last offseason. The Chargers' decision to release Becton is expected to free up around $10 million in salary cap space, which will be used to bolster other areas of the team. The move also opens up opportunities for younger players on the roster to compete for starting roles. Becton's departure marks the second significant personnel change for the Chargers this offseason, following the trade of wide receiver Keenan Allen to the Kansas City Chiefs. As the team looks to rebuild and retool its roster ahead of the 2024 season, the release of Becton is seen as a step in the right direction towards creating more cap space and flexibility.#Kansas_City_Chiefs #Mekhi_Becton #Los_Angeles_Chargers #Justin_Herbert #Keenan_Allen
Chargers to Release Mekhi Becton in Cost-Cutting Move The Los Angeles Chargers are set to release left tackle Mekhi Becton, a move that is expected to be the first of several cost-cutting measures made by the team this offseason. According to sources, the Chargers have decided to part ways with Becton due to his high salary and lack of production on the field. Becton, who was signed to a four-year, $72 million contract in 2020, has struggled to stay healthy and perform at a high level during his time with the Chargers. Injuries have limited him to just 15 starts over the past two seasons, and when he has played, he has often been outperformed by opposing edge rushers. The move is expected to save the Chargers around $10 million in cap space this season, which could be used to address other areas of need on the roster. It's unclear at this time whether the team will attempt to re-sign Becton if he becomes a free agent or look elsewhere for a replacement. Becton's departure would mark the second significant move made by the Chargers this offseason, following the release of cornerback Chris Harris Jr. earlier this month. The team has also been exploring trade options for quarterback Justin Herbert and is expected to make other roster moves in the coming weeks as it looks to improve its chances of making a deep playoff run. With Becton set to hit the open market, he could draw interest from several teams looking for a veteran left tackle. However, his lack of production and injury history may limit his options and force him to accept a lower salary or prove himself in training camp before earning a starting role.#Mekhi_Becton #Los_Angeles_Chargers #Justin_Herbert #Chris_Harris_Jr
