As Philadelphia Eagles continue their methodical approach to free agency, one of their key offensive linemen from last season remains unsigned. Mekhi Becton, who successfully transitioned from tackle to right guard in 2024, has emerged as one of the top remaining free agents on the market.
According to Bill Sparks of TWSN, Becton should consider signing with Indianapolis Colts rather than returning to Philadelphia. Sparks believes Indianapolis would be an ideal landing spot for the former first-round pick as it looks to replace departed guard Will Fries.
"Ultimately, if Indianapolis can make the financial component of it work, signing Mekhi Becton is a must for a team that has questions about other parts of their offense, such as QB," Sparks noted. "Solidifying the five best offensive linemen in front of their quarterback will go a long way in ensuring that this Colts offense is set up for success in 2025."
Becton's projected market value sits at approximately $10 million per season, according to PFF, which would represent good value for a 25-year-old former 11th overall pick who appears to have found his niche at guard. This comes at a time when guard salaries are skyrocketing across the league, with Fries himself reportedly landing a five-year, $88 million contract with Minnesota Vikings.
For Philadelphia, letting Becton walk would continue what has been primarily a cost-cutting offseason. Philadelphia has already lost several key contributors, including Josh Sweat, Milton Williams, C.J. Gardner-Johnson, Kenneth Gainwell, Darius Slay Jr., Isaiah Rodgers, and Oren Burks.
While Philadelphia currently has about $21 million in salary cap space, it has been surprisingly quiet in free agency. The only outside additions have been running back A.J. Dillon and pass rusher Josh Uche on one-year deals, while re-signing defenders Zack Baun and Ben VanSumeren.
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If Becton does depart, Philadelphia would likely turn to Tyler Steen or 2024 draft pick Trevor Keegan to compete for the right guard position. It also acquired Kenyon Green from Houston Texans in the Gardner-Johnson trade, though the former first-round pick has struggled in his first three NFL seasons.
Becton won Philadelphia's right guard competition in training camp last summer and became a solid contributor to its championship offensive line. His potential departure would represent yet another significant talent loss from the 2024 Super Bowl roster.
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This story was originally published March 14, 2025 at 5:01 PM.