Mekhi Becton Sr. Bio
Mekhi Becton Sr., known by the nickname “Big Ticket,” is an American professional football guard for the Los Angeles Chargers of the National Football League (NFL). Born on April 18, 1999, in Highland Springs, Virginia, he rose to prominence as a first-round pick in the 2020 NFL draft by the New York Jets. Known for his imposing size and skill on the field, Becton has showcased his talent across multiple NFL teams, contributing significantly to each franchise’s success. Standing at 6 feet 7 inches and weighing approximately 165 kilograms, his physical presence is a defining feature of his game.
After transitioning from tackle to guard, Becton helped lead the Philadelphia Eagles to a Super Bowl victory before joining the Chargers in 2025. His journey from a highly recruited high school athlete to a Super Bowl champion reflects his dedication and adaptability in the league.
Early Life and Background
Mekhi Becton Sr. was born on April 18, 1999, in Highland Springs, Virginia. He grew up in the same community where he would later attend high school and develop his passion for football. Becton has two younger brothers, and the close-knit family environment helped shape his early years.
Becton attended Highland Springs High School, where he quickly emerged as a standout football player. Regarded as a three-star prospect, he was ranked as the No. 43 offensive tackle and No. 405 overall recruit in the 247Sports Composite. His performances on the field drew the attention of college recruiters nationwide, and by February 1, 2017, National Signing Day, he had narrowed his college choices to five schools: Louisville, Virginia, Virginia Tech, Michigan, and Oregon. While heavily recruited by Virginia, Becton ultimately chose Louisville because it was close to home.
Beyond football, Becton developed an interest in building Lego sets, a hobby that has followed him into his professional career. His formative years in Highland Springs provided the foundation for his future success in the sport.
Path to American Football
Mekhi Becton Sr.’s path to professional football began at Highland Springs High School, where his size and athleticism made him a dominant force on the offensive line. His recruitment by 31 schools underscored his potential, and his decision to attend Louisville allowed him to stay close to his family while competing at a high level.
At Louisville, Becton played as a freshman in the 2017 season, appearing in 13 games and starting 11 for the Cardinals at the tackle position. During the first four games of that season, he was the highest-rated freshman in the country by Pro Football Focus. Over seven games, he was the best pass-blocker in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), allowing only six pressures in 312 snaps.
Becton was named a starting tackle for the 2018 season and started every game, bringing his total number of games started to 23 by the end of the season. After the 2019 regular season, he received first-team All-ACC honors and won the Jacobs Blocking Award. He decided to forgo his senior season and sit out Louisville’s bowl game, declaring for the 2020 NFL draft. His combination of size, athleticism, and on-field production made him one of the most sought-after offensive line prospects in his class.
Mekhi Becton Sr. Career
New York Jets Era (2020–2023)
Mekhi Becton Sr. was selected in the first round with the 11th overall pick by the New York Jets in the 2020 NFL draft. His arrival in New York was met with high expectations, as the Jets sought to bolster their offensive line with a player of his caliber.
However, Becton’s early career was marked by injury setbacks. On September 12, 2021, he suffered an apparent knee injury and was carted off the field. It was revealed that he had suffered cartilage damage, which required surgery and placed him on injured reserve on September 14, 2021. The following year, on July 27, 2022, after George Fant was moved to left tackle, Becton was shifted to right tackle. Just days later, during training camp, he was diagnosed with an avulsion fracture of his right kneecap. The Jets placed him on injured reserve, and he missed the entire 2022 season. Becton rebounded in 2023, starting 16 games and demonstrating his resilience.
Philadelphia Eagles Era (2024)
On April 29, 2024, Mekhi Becton Sr. signed a one-year contract with the Philadelphia Eagles. With little chance of gaining a starting spot at the tackle position, the Eagles offered him the opportunity to move to guard.
The transition proved highly successful. Becton quickly became the Eagles’ starting right guard, starting 15 games during the regular season. His performance on the offensive line helped the Eagles win Super Bowl LIX against the Kansas City Chiefs, cementing his reputation as a versatile and dominant lineman. The Super Bowl victory marked the pinnacle of his time in Philadelphia.
Los Angeles Chargers Era (2025–Present)
On March 14, 2025, Mekhi Becton Sr. signed a two-year, $20 million contract with the Los Angeles Chargers. The move signaled a new chapter in his career as he joined an offense looking to solidify its offensive line.
Becton’s arrival in Los Angeles brought veteran experience and championship pedigree to the Chargers. His imposing size and refined skills at the guard position made him an immediate asset for the team’s front five.
Notable Events and Milestones
One of the defining moments of Mekhi Becton Sr.’s career came during Super Bowl LIX, where he helped the Philadelphia Eagles defeat the Kansas City Chiefs to claim a championship. Earlier in his career, he earned first-team All-ACC honors and the Jacobs Blocking Award in 2019, recognizing his excellence as a college offensive lineman. Being selected 11th overall in the 2020 NFL draft remains a significant milestone, reflecting his status as one of the top prospects in his class.
Mekhi Becton Sr. Family
Family Background and Personal Life
Mekhi Becton Sr. was raised in Highland Springs, Virginia, alongside two younger brothers. His family provided a supportive environment during his formative years, and he chose to attend the University of Louisville partly because it was close to home.
Outside of football, Becton is an avid builder of Lego sets, a hobby that reflects his attention to detail and patience. His personal interests offer a glimpse into the life of an athlete known primarily for his physical dominance on the gridiron.
2025 Season Performance
Mekhi Becton Sr. entered the 2025 NFL season with the Los Angeles Chargers after signing a two-year, $20 million contract in March 2025. His addition to the Chargers’ offensive line was seen as a major move to strengthen the team’s protection and run-blocking capabilities.
Coming off a Super Bowl victory with the Philadelphia Eagles, Becton brought championship experience and proven versatility to Los Angeles. His transition from tackle to guard during the 2024 season paid dividends, and the Chargers are expected to rely on his size and skill as a key contributor on the offensive line.