Chargers Likely to Move On from Mekhi Becton After Disappointing Season

The Los Angeles Chargers’ 2025-26 season concluded with a 16-3 Wild Card loss to the New England Patriots, leaving the organization looking ahead to the offseason with questions about roster construction. One key topic of speculation centers on veteran guard Mekhi Becton, whose future in Los Angeles appears uncertain.

According to Tony Pauline of Essentially Sports, rumors emerging at the East-West Shrine Bowl suggest that the Chargers are preparing to cut the 26-year-old offensive lineman. The organization reportedly views Becton’s performance in 15 games as below expectations, prompting the possibility of opting out of the final year of his contract.

Becton had briefly revitalized his career during a one-year stint with the Philadelphia Eagles, earning a Super Bowl ring and later signing a two-year, $20 million deal with the Chargers. However, his struggles in Los Angeles have raised concerns about his consistency and overall impact on the offensive line.

As the team evaluates its personnel and cap space, Becton’s uncertain future underscores the Chargers’ need to stabilize the offensive line and protect quarterback Justin Herbert for the coming season.

1. Struggles on the Offensive Line

Becton started 15 games for the Chargers in 2025-26, but his performance was widely criticized. According to reports, his run-blocking and pass-protection grades were among the lowest in the league, marking him as one of the most underperforming guards in the NFL. The offensive line as a whole faced significant challenges throughout the season. Injuries forced the Chargers to rotate backups at key tackle positions, creating inconsistency in both the running game and pass protection. Herbert’s success at quarterback was occasionally limited by pressure stemming from these weaknesses. The team’s struggles upfront were a major factor in close losses and contributed to the early playoff exit. While Becton had shown potential in prior years, the lack of production this season failed to meet organizational expectations. Los Angeles now faces a critical decision: either retain Becton and hope for a rebound or pursue a roster shake-up that prioritizes reliability and performance at key line positions.

2. Career Context and Recent History

Mekhi Becton’s career has been a story of highs and lows. After initial struggles in the NFL, he seemed to turn a corner during his brief tenure with Philadelphia, culminating in a Super Bowl victory. That resurgence earned him a two-year, $20 million contract with the Chargers last offseason. However, his transition to Los Angeles has been rocky. Reports suggest that Becton has “reverted to his former ways,” failing to deliver consistent protection and stability. For a team heavily reliant on Herbert’s arm, the offensive line’s performance is critical, and Becton’s underwhelming season has amplified the issue. The Chargers’ front office now has flexibility in deciding whether to exercise the second year of his contract. With Becton underperforming despite extensive playing time, the scales appear to be tipping toward parting ways. This potential move illustrates the challenges of evaluating talent and fit in the NFL, even for players who have previously shown the ability to succeed at a high level.

3. Offseason Outlook and Cap Considerations

With Becton’s status uncertain, the Chargers have an opportunity to address lingering offensive line concerns in the offseason. The team is projected to have approximately $85.9 million in cap space, providing flexibility to pursue free agents or make trades to strengthen the front five. Protecting Herbert remains a priority. The organization’s ability to add depth and quality along the line will be crucial for both the running game and passing attack in 2026. Any moves regarding Becton could be paired with additional acquisitions to ensure the line’s effectiveness. Los Angeles also faces broader personnel decisions, from evaluating other underperforming players to exploring draft options that can help balance veteran presence with developmental talent. The offensive line is likely to be a central focus in shaping a team capable of deep playoff contention. As the Chargers plan their roster strategy, the combination of cap flexibility and clear positional needs gives the organization an opportunity to correct mistakes from the past season while preparing for a stronger campaign in 2026.