NFL Rumors: Chargers expect to cut their top-paid starter 🏈

The Los Angeles Chargers are expected to part ways with offensive lineman Mekhi Becton this offseason, according to NFL insider Tony Pauline. The move would come after a disappointing first year under a two-year, $20 million contract, during which Becton reportedly “reverted to his former ways” and added significant weight.

Becton’s NFL arc has been up-and-down. Drafted 11th overall by the Jets in 2020, he flashed promise as a rookie but dealt with injuries that limited him to one game over the next two seasons. After New York declined to bring him back, he signed with the Eagles in 2023 and shifted to guard, starting on the right side and contributing to Saquon Barkley’s 2,000-yard season before earning the Chargers’ lucrative deal.

But his tenure in Los Angeles has been problematic. Pro Football Focus lists him among the league’s worst linemen this season, with three sacks allowed and five penalties. Notably, he posted the lowest run-blocking grade (34.3) among guards, a stark contrast to what the Chargers hoped to receive.

Financially, a likely release would carry a clear cap impact. Per OverTheCap.com, cutting Becton would free up about $9.7 million in cap space, pushing Los Angeles to roughly $90 million in available cap room this offseason.

This potential move comes amid other Chargers offseason activity, including the extension of defensive tackle Teair Tart and the hiring of Mike McDaniel as offensive coordinator. If Becton is waived, it would align with the team’s ongoing roster and cap strategy as it refines the line ahead of the coming season.