NY Jets Decline Fifth-Year Option on Mekhi Becton

In a move that was expected by many,  the Jets have declined the fifth-year option on offensive tackle Mekhi Becton.

As expected, the Jets declined Mekhi Becton’s fifth-year option, as @diannaESPN said. It means he will be a free agent in 2024.

Meanwhile, Becton continues to transform his body. He’s down to 342 pounds, per source — down 50+ pounds. #Jets

— Rich Cimini (@RichCimini) May 2, 2023

After putting together a highlight reel of blocks as a rookie, Becton missed what essentially amounted to two full seasons following a week 1 injury against the Carolina Panthers to start his sophomore season.

@nyjets @BigTicket73 helped pave the way to the #Jets 1st Victory. Anyone who can't celebrate with Highway77 and his teammates on this Victory Monday is a SCROOGE! Merry Christmas to the legion of J E T S Fans! #takeflight #BaldysBreakdowns pic.twitter.com/zxJLG4E0Rc

— Brian Baldinger (@BaldyNFL) December 21, 2020

Should Becton manage to stay healthy and play at a high level this season, expect the Jets to keep him under contract via franchise tag.

About Mekhi Becton

• Becton was selected in the first round with the 11th overall pick by the New York Jets in the 2020 NFL Draft.
• On September 12, 2021, Becton suffered an apparent knee injury and was carted off the field. It was revealed that Becton had suffered cartilage damage, which required surgery, putting him out for 4–6 weeks. 
• He was placed on injured reserve on September 14, 2021.
• On August 8, 2022, during training camp, Becton was diagnosed with an avulsion fracture of his right kneecap.
• Eight days later, the Jets placed him on injured reserve, and he missed the entire season.