The Chargers cut the Jets to bust Mekhi Becton ahead of NFL free agency

Mekhi Becton will be looking for his fourth team in four years.

The Chargers cut the Jets’ former first-round pick, According to ESPNthe latest development in what has been a whirlwind NFL career for the offensive lineman.

Becton, 26, was entering the second year of a two-year, $20 million contract that guaranteed him just under $7 million. The Chargers will carry a $2.5 million charge in 2026 but will save $9.7 million by releasing the 6-foot-7 Louisville product.

Projected to be a franchise tackle for the Louisville Jets in 2020, Becton’s tenure with Gang Green has been marred by injuries and ineffectiveness.

He left after four years to sign with the Eagles, moved to guard and became a starter on the team that won the Super Bowl 13 months ago.

Becton then joined the Chargers but took a step back in 2025 as the team’s offensive line struggled without injured tackles Rashawn Slater, who missed the entire season with a ruptured patellar tendon, and Joe Alt, who was limited to six games due to ankle injuries.

For the second time in as many years under Jim Harbaugh, the Chargers went 11-6, finished second in the AFC West and lost in the Wild Card round.

They are expected to be among the teams with the most cap space with free agency starting next week as they look to break through for quarterback Justin Herbert, who is 0-3 in playoff appearances.

The Chargers fired offensive coordinator Greg Roman, who has since become a top offensive assistant Under the leadership of Harbaugh’s brother John with the Giants.

Mike McDaniel, who was fired by the Dolphins after four years as their head coach, replaced Roman as the Chargers’ new offensive coordinator.