3 standouts and 2 duds from NY Jets first joint practice with Panthers

Standout: Mekhi Becton, OT, NY Jets

The Jets have been very cautious with Mekhi Becton this summer as he continues to work his way back into playing shape. He's responded well with every step, and Wednesday's practice was his best day yet.

The former first-round pick participated in all 17 snaps of team drills before sitting out for the two-minute drill. While the other Jet's offensive tackles struggled — more on that in a moment — Becton shined.

Becton was a menace in the run game, most notably flattening rookie outside linebacker Eku Leota, one of the standouts of Panthers training camp. He was also sound in pass protection, again, especially when compared to his teammates.

Becton is clearly one of the Jets' top-five offensive linemen and likely the most talented tackle on the roster. The Jets don't consider him a serious threat to start right now, but they probably should.

Dud: Max Mitchell, OT, NY Jets

The Jets have been rotating Max Mitchell and Billy Turner at left tackle while Duane Brown is sidelined. Mitchell got the nod at left tackle on Wednesday, and things did not go well.

The former fourth-round pick was victimized by Panthers star Brian Burns on a number of occasions. On one play during 11-on-11 drills, Burns got past Mitchell quickly and "sacked" Rodgers, prompting a visibly frustrated reaction from the Jets' QB.

Turner had his fair share of issues as well, but it was Mitchell who stood out for all the wrong reasons on Wednesday. The Jets like Mitchell better at right tackle, but it's hard to be optimistic about either of the team's two contenders for that spot right now.

It might be time to give Becton an opportunity at right tackle.