Becton injury could be big blow to Jets
The Jets’ much-maligned offensive line suffered a potentially devastating blow in Sunday’s loss to the Panthers. On Zach Wilson’s first career touchdown pass, to Corey Davis late in the third quarter, left tackle Mekhi Becton went down with an injury to his left knee that left the hulking 6-7, 364-pound lineman in tears as he was carted off the field.
He was ruled as doubtful to return, but it was clear he wasn’t going to be able to come back into the game. Initial tests on Becton’s knee suggest an MCL sprain, according to the NFL Network. The 2020 first-round pick will have an MRI.
During the play, Panthers defensive tackle Daviyon Nixon crashed the pocket and as he bulldozed through he collided with the back of Becton’s legs. Nixon got up to continue chasing Wilson, but Becton remained on the ground rolling over onto his back.
A few members of the Jets took a knee in prayer as Becton remained on the ground. He was eventually able to walk off the field with assistance.
This is already Becton’s third injury of 2021.
He dealt with plantar fasciitis during the offseason, which caused him to miss all of OTAs. Then he suffered a concussion during joint practices with the Packers.
Becton also struggled with pass blocking during training camp, but showed promise during the preseason by allowing only one pressure in two games.
OFFENSIVE LINE GETS EXPOSED
The Jets knew they had their hands full going against a strong Panthers defensive line that featured Brian Burns, Haason Reddick, Derrick Brown, Morgan Fox and DaQuan Jones.
“We knew they’re gonna heat us up. It’s what happens when you’re with a younger quarterback,” center Connor McGovern said.
The Jets knew pressure was coming, but still failed to combat it.
Gang Green allowed six sacks and Wilson was pressured 14 times. The run game was useless as it mustered only 45 yards on 17 carries.
Jets coach Robert Saleh didn’t want to crush the unit in the postgame press conference. But it was warranted.
When Wilson had time to throw, he was able to find his targets. But when there was a hint of pressure, he struggled, which is normal for a rookie QB.
A prime example of what type of day it was for the O-line came late in the fourth quarter. Panthers defensive tackle Brown crushed Wilson and the No. 2 overall pick got up slowly after he got his helmet slammed to the turf.
“Neck is a little sore, I got some whiplash. But I’ll be all right,” Wilson said.
STRONG DEBUT FOR DAVIS
Corey Davis, the former Titan, showed why the Jets signed him to a three-year, $37.5 million deal.
Davis caught five passes for 97 yards and two touchdowns in his Gang Green debut.
Most of the big plays from the Jets offense on Sunday came from Davis. His numbers would have been better if the offensive line protection held up because he was consistently open.
The first touchdown came on a broken play, and he was able to shake free in the back of the end zone for a 22-yard touchdown in the third quarter. On his last one, Wilson fired a dart on an out route to Davis as he beat Jaycee Horn for the 8-yard score late in the fourth.