Mekhi Becton looks the part of an enforcer.
The Jets needed someone who can watch the back of Sam Darnold. Becton, at 6-foot-7, 364 pounds, can do just that for general manager Joe Douglas.
There were four tackles at the top of the draft board and Douglas was able to land one of them for his offensive line.
The Jets selected Becton, out of Lousiville, with the 11th overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft.
Looking at how the early portion of the first round unfolded, the Jets could’ve gone for a wide receiver instead. But, perhaps considering how deep the pool is for receivers this year, addressing the offensive line was a no-brainer for Douglas.
This was one of the worst offensive lines in the NFL last season. If Darnold is going to progress into a star quarterback, he needs to be upright in order to do it.
The Giants selected Andrew Thomas with the No. 4 pick and the Browns took Jedrick Wills at No. 10.
Becton, along with Tristan Wirfs of Iowa, were still available for the Jets to choose from. They ultimately decided that Becton was their guy.
The last time the Jets selected an offensive lineman in the first round was 2006 when they selected tackle D’Brickashaw Ferguson and center Nick Mangold.
It’s been that long and at some point, a major upgrade is necessary.
Becton raised enough eyebrows where some scouts believe he could turn out to be the best tackle in the draft. Yes, he’s a big man. But, he’s also quicker than people think.
Don’t let the size fool you, this man can move. He ran a 5.1 in the 40 at the combine.
Reminder: Becton is 364 pounds.
Becton is athletic enough to play left or right tackle for the Jets.
In an offense where head coach Adam Gase will want to open it up for Darnold and running back Le’Veon Bell, upgrading the line was an absolute must.
Becton did have a flagged drug test and his weight will be something to keep an eye on. His potential, however, was enough for the Jets to take a chance.
