Aug 14, 2021; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; New York Jets offensive tackle Mekhi Becton (77) laughs during the second half against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports
NFL: New York Jets at New York Giants
(New Jersey) — The Jets had their first joint practice on Wednesday, hosting the Carolina Panthers at Florham Park.
All eyes were on Aaron Rodgers and the Jets offense who faced competition outside of their defense for the first time.
The four-time MVP was in midseason form constantly connecting with a familiar friend, Allen Lazard, who spent his first four seasons in Green Bay with Rodgers.
The only issue? The Jets quarterback was regularly running for his life. New York’s shorthanded first-team offensive line wasn’t very good Wednesday and was overmatched by an average Panthers front seven, according to Nick Faria of AM Sports.
It wasn’t all bad though. One player that stood out? Mekhi Becton.
Becton reportedly was pancaking Lions defenders left and right while also excelling in pass protection throughout practice.
The 24-year-old consistently has gotten stronger throughout camp and Wednesday was another step in the right direction.
It’s important to note, Becton has exclusively worked with the second team during training camp. However, with the Jets offensive line struggling, and Becton healthy, that trend can quickly change.
After dominating his rookie year, the tackle has been plagued by injuries, starting just one game over the last two seasons.
He said social media trolls played with his mind, admitting “the hardest part” of his recovery was “trying to get my mentals right, because you got a lot of people that say stuff about you, say little things about you. I’m trying not to let words get to me.”
“My goal is to be a starter in Week 1. Wherever they want me, I just want to be on the field.”
While it’s early, the Jets 2020 first-round selection sounded like a guy who has tweaked his mental approach – as well as his physical – and is fully motivated to be a starter in the NFL.
Only time will tell if that trend continues.
