Mekhi Becton, the New York Jets' offensive tackle, has embarked on a transformative journey, both physically and mentally, to revive his career and fulfill the promise he showed as a first-round pick. After facing injuries and criticism, Becton is determined to prove his doubters wrong and reclaim his place as a dominant force on the Jets' offensive line. This article delves into Becton's weight loss journey, the challenges he overcame, and his unwavering determination to succeed.
A Promising Start Derailed by Injuries
Becton's NFL career began with high expectations. Drafted in 2020, he quickly established himself as a promising left tackle, starting 13 games and displaying the potential to be a cornerstone player for the Jets. However, his progress was abruptly halted by a series of unfortunate injuries.
In the first game of the 2021 season, Becton suffered a right knee injury when an opposing player fell on him. Initially expected to sideline him for a few weeks, the injury ultimately cost him the entire season. Just as he was preparing to return the following year, his knee buckled during training camp, requiring further surgery and another season on the sidelines.
Hitting Rock Bottom and Recognizing the Need for Change
The past two years have been incredibly challenging for Becton. "These last two years have been really hard," Becton confessed. "I was definitely beaten down." He felt abandoned and forgotten, as if he was "thrown to the side like I was nothing." The experience plunged him into a dark place, questioning his future in the NFL.
After the 2022 season, Becton realized that he needed to make a significant change. He sought guidance from Cameron Clark, a former Jets offensive lineman who had trained with Becton before the 2020 draft. Clark recommended that Becton work with his agent, Alan Herman, and Parisi Speed School owner Rich Sadiv.
Read also: Weight Loss Guide Andalusia, AL
Mapping Out a Transformation Plan
Becton met with Herman and Sadiv to create an offseason regimen focused on recovering from his knee injury and reducing his weight. When drafted, Becton weighed close to 370 pounds. By last offseason, that number had ballooned to closer to 400 pounds.
Sadiv recognized that Becton needed encouragement and positive reinforcement. He emphasized Becton's elite athleticism and assured him that he could regain his top form. Sadiv's message resonated with Becton, who felt ready to dedicate himself to the challenge.
The first step was to step on the scale, which read 394 pounds. Sadiv prescribed a strict diet and a rigorous workout schedule of five days a week for an hour and 15 minutes per session. Becton embraced the challenge, determined to transform his body and career.
Life-Changing Advice and a Holistic Approach
Sadiv's approach extended beyond physical training. He shared life lessons and motivational techniques, drawing inspiration from various sources, including bobsledder-turned-coach Martin Rooney and Dale Carnegie's "How To Win Friends and Influence People."
One piece of advice that particularly resonated with Becton was the importance of being a good father. Sadiv, drawing from his own experiences, emphasized that the true measure of parenting comes later in life when children express their gratitude. This advice struck a chord with Becton, whose son was about to turn one year old.
Read also: Beef jerky: A high-protein option for shedding pounds?
Sadiv also shared Carnegie's principles, such as using people's names to gain their attention and finding a way to achieve a "yes" when everyone else says "no." He encouraged Becton to treat himself with kindness and avoid self-criticism.
Remarkable Progress and a Renewed Sense of Confidence
Under Sadiv's guidance, Becton steadily grew stronger, more confident, and shed weight. His most recent weigh-in revealed a weight of 342 pounds. Herman described Sadiv's work with Becton as "remarkable," highlighting the player's dedication and the positive impact of the training regimen.
Becton himself acknowledged the transformative effect of his new team. "Just the change of scenery, I changed people that sit at my metaphoric table, I shuffled the deck a little bit, and it’s worked out," Becton said. "[Herman] and [Sadiv] changed my whole life around. They’ve helped me and guided me the right way. I feel like my life did a complete 180."
"I. AM. A. LEFT. TACKLE!!!"
Becton's renewed confidence manifested in an Instagram post that read, "I. AM. A. LEFT. TACKLE!!!" While he later deleted the post, it sparked a reaction from Jets coach Robert Saleh, who challenged Becton to earn the position.
Becton firmly believes that left tackle is his natural position. "I got drafted as a left tackle. I dominated as a left tackle my rookie year," Becton asserted. He expressed his frustration with being placed at right tackle during the previous year's training camp, arguing that it put unnecessary stress on his injured right knee. He felt his concerns were dismissed, leading to another injury and a lost season.
Read also: Inspiring Health Transformation
Despite the challenges, Becton remains determined to reclaim his spot as the Jets' starting left tackle. He is confident that he will prove his doubters wrong and become the best tackle in the league.
A Critical Juncture and a Chance to Prove Himself
The Jets' decision not to sign Becton to a fifth-year option adds further motivation for him to succeed. He views it as "just another chip on my shoulder" and embraces the opportunity to prove his worth.
Becton's journey is not just about weight loss; it's about redemption, resilience, and the unwavering pursuit of a dream. As he enters training camp, he carries the weight of expectations, the scars of past injuries, and the burning desire to prove himself to the Jets, his critics, and most importantly, himself.