Jim Harbaugh needs the Los Angeles Chargers to be solid in all aspects heading into the upcoming season, especially on the offensive line, where there are still some issues to address. With the addition of a Super Bowl champion, things could improve in terms of protecting Justin Herbert.
According to Ian Rapoport, the Chargers have reached an agreement with Mekhi Becton, who recently won Super Bowl LIX as part of the Eagles. The veteran guard could help bolster Herbert’s protection.
Becton had an impressive 2024 season despite having just four years of experience. He is already regarded as one of the top players at his position. With 903 offensive snaps last season—84 fewer than in 2023—he proved to be a key piece on the offensive line.
The Chargers‘ offensive line performed well last season, ranking 11th out of 32 teams while averaging 23.6 points per game. That reflected the strong play of Herbert, who finished the season with 23 touchdown passes.
EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY – NOVEMBER 06: Mekhi Becton #77 of the New York Jets warms up before the game against the Los Angeles Chargers at MetLife Stadium on November 06, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
Justin Herbert Needs More Protection
Despite the Chargers’ deep playoff run in Harbaugh’s first season as head coach, Herbert still faced significant pressure. In 2024, he was the seventh-most sacked quarterback in the NFL, ranking between Jayden Daniels and Will Levis.
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Herbert was sacked 41 times last season—a high number, though an improvement from 2023 when he was sacked 70 times, ranking eighth in that category. The improved protection last year helped limit the Chargers’ sack-related yardage loss to 244 yards over the 17 games he played.
Becton’s Salary
The details of Becton’s contract with the Chargers have not yet been disclosed, but it is expected to be significantly higher than what he earned with the Eagles last season. His final salary in Philadelphia was $2.75 million, and he could potentially double that amount in Los Angeles.
