NY Jets: Mekhi Becton expected to play Week 1 despite concussion

The NY Jets have been without left tackle Mekhi Becton since Tuesday after the young offensive lineman exited practice early with a potential head injury.

Fortunately, although he's set to miss this Friday's preseason game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Becton is reportedly expected to be ready to go for Week 1, per D.J. Bien-Aime of the New York Daily News.

Becton was injured in a head-to-head collision during Tuesday's joint practice with the Eagles. He originally stayed in before he was seen vomiting on the sideline.

Becton was taken to the locker room shortly after and has since been diagnosed with a concussion. He will be required to be cleared by the Jets' medical staff and an independent neurological consultant after following the five-step Return-To-Participation protocol, per NFL rules.

The NY Jets should have a healthy offensive line including Mekhi Becton in Week 1

The Jets' offensive line has battled multiple injuries this summer which could have an effect on the chemistry of the unit.

First-round pick Aljiah Vera-Tucker missed most of training camp with a nagging pectoral injury. That's not even considering the injuries to many of the team's backups including Cameron Clark, Conor McDermott, Chuma Edoga, and Jimmy Murray.

Fortunately, it appears as though the entire starting unit will be available when the Jets take the field for Week 1, barring any injuries in the team's final preseason game on Friday.

Becton, who won't be participating in the game, has had an up-and-down summer. Although he's played well in both preseason games, Becton has struggled at times in practice, especially in pass protection.

Carl Lawson gave him fits prior to his injury. Preston Smith got the better of Becton in join practices with the Green Bay Packers. Becton's struggles were even acknowledged by offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur earlier in the month.

It's still too early to be concerned, especially given that Becton was learning a new system and that he was playing alongside Dan Feeney, and not Vera-Tucker, for most of the summer.

But he is a player worth keeping an eye on as the regular season approaches. Thankfully, he should be on the field come Week 1.