New York Jets' Mekhi Becton having MRI on surgically repaired knee; coach Robert Saleh optimistic

FLORHAM PARK, N.J. — New York Jets right tackle Mekhi Becton is having an MRI on his surgically repaired right knee after limping off the practice field Monday in apparent pain.

The injury doesn't appear serious, according to the Jets, but any time lost is potentially significant because Becton has battled weight and conditioning issues.

«As of now, it doesn't seem like a big deal, but — knock on wood — hopefully that stays the case,» said coach Robert Saleh, who described the MRI as precautionary.

The 2020 first-round pick injured his right knee in the 2021 season opener and never played again even though the team initially called it a four- to six-week return from surgery.

On Monday, he labored through early offensive-line drills, checking his knee and moving gingerly. A few minutes later, on the second play of an 11-on-11 period, Becton fell backward after being jolted by defensive end John Franklin-Myers. His right foot seemed to get caught in the grass, perhaps causing his knee to bend awkwardly.

Becton removed his shoulder pads and limped immediately to the locker room with members of the training staff. He started wearing a knee brace last Friday, an indication that he may have started to feel discomfort.

The injury occurred two days after the Jets hosted free-agent tackle Duane Brown, who attended the Jets' annual Green & White scrimmage at MetLife Stadium. They remain interested in Brown, a five-time Pro Bowl selection who turns 37 on Aug. 30.

With Becton's injury, and with backup swing tackle Conor McDermott sidelined one to two weeks with a sprained ankle, there is a greater sense of urgency to add an experienced tackle. Starting left tackle George Fant also is returned from knee surgery, although he is