FLORHAM PARK, N.J. -- The New York Jets declined the fifth-year option for offensive tackle Mekhi Becton, sources said -- a long-anticipated move that makes the 2020 first-round pick a free agent after the 2023 season.
The Jets had until Tuesday to make the decision. The option would've guaranteed Becton a salary of $13.5 million in 2024, but his injury history made it prohibitive.
Becton, picked 11th overall out of Louisville, has played only one game since 2020. He injured his right knee in the 2021 opener, requiring season-ending surgery. He hurt the same knee early in training camp last summer, resulting in another surgery that ended his season.