Chargers Release Mekhi Becton in Cost-Cutting Move The Los Angeles Chargers announced the release of guard Mekhi Becton as part of a strategy to reduce financial obligations and manage their salary cap. The move saves the team $9.7 million, with Becton’s contract including a $2.5 million roster bonus due on March 13 and an additional $1 million bonus on March 15. The decision comes as the Chargers enter the offseason with a projected $86 million in salary cap space, allowing them to focus on rebuilding their offensive line. Becton, a 26-year-old six-year veteran, struggled during his time with the Chargers after signing a two-year, $20 million deal in March 2024. His performance declined significantly in 2025, marked by frequent injuries and inconsistent play. He ranked as the 49th-worst guard in pass block win rate (91.2%) and the third-worst lineman in run block win rate (63.4%). Becton played just 72% of snaps during the season, appearing in 15 games—14 of which were starts. The Chargers’ decision to cut ties with Becton was influenced by both his on-field performance and the team’s evolving offensive strategy. Becton, a first-round draft pick by the New York Jets in 2020, endured four injury-plagued seasons with the Jets before finding success with the Super Bowl-winning Philadelphia Eagles in 2024. However, his struggles with the Chargers, including vocal frustrations expressed in November 2025, likely contributed to the release. The Chargers’ offensive approach also played a role. Under former offensive coordinator Greg Roman, the team ran a gap-scheme offense that emphasized physicality and relied on large, powerful linemen like Becton.#philadelphia_eagles #los_angeles_chargers #new_york_jets #mekhi_becton #greg_roman
