The Los Angeles Chargers’ offensive lineman Mekhi Becton faces an unclear future on the team’s roster heading into the upcoming season, with key decisions pending during the staff’s off-season meetings. General Manager Joe Hortiz refrained from confirming Becton’s place on the roster when questioned, signaling ongoing internal discussions between coaches and executives set to finalize personnel plans after their return.
Chargers’ Management Prepares to Review Roster Decisions
After returning to Los Angeles, the Chargers’ coaching staff and management are scheduled to convene over several days to finalize roster decisions, including the status of Mekhi Becton. When asked about Becton’s guaranteed spot, GM Joe Hortiz responded,
“I’m not going to talk about that right now Rhim,”
indicating that the situation remains unsettled.
Plans to Strengthen Offensive Line and Protect Justin Herbert
Recognizing the need to better protect quarterback Justin Herbert, Hortiz outlined a strategy that involves scheme changes introduced by Offensive Coordinator Mike McDaniel, along with personnel upgrades on the offensive line and adding new playmakers. These adjustments are intended to reduce pressure on Herbert and improve offensive efficiency for the Chargers in the coming season.
NFL Draft Insights: Quarterback Prospects Fernando Mendoza and Ty Simpson
In broader NFL news, Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza is widely projected by analysts as the likely first-overall pick in the upcoming draft. Though not seen as a generational talent like some of his predecessors, Mendoza possesses a combination of physical toughness and mental resilience that many believe will translate into success at the professional level.

Analyst Daniel Jeremiah praised Mendoza’s composure and decision-making, stating,
“Physically and mentally tough, that’s the first thing you notice—he hangs in there and doesn’t get rattled. He has poise to go along with that … he’s really, really good in those scenarios. So good decisions, accurate, can drive the ball, all the stuff that you need. He can do all that stuff.”
– Daniel Jeremiah, NFL Media
ESPN’s Todd McShay echoed this view, emphasizing Mendoza’s potential as a reliable starter without categorizing him among the elite quarterbacks.
“If I’m the Raiders, I take him at No. 1, and I truly believe they will take him at No. 1,”
McShay said.
“I think he’s a quarterback who is absolutely deserving, and he’s got a chance to be a good starter in the NFL. … I also haven’t talked to a single person who thinks [he’s elite]. And this is the conversation: He can be a guy, but I don’t have him as one of the guys.”
– Todd McShay, ESPN
Following Mendoza, Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson is seen as the next likely selection, though analysts note concerns about his size and experience compared to other recent NFL quarterbacks. McShay commented on Simpson’s athleticism and arm strength but also noted,
“He’s undersized. He’s more athletic than people want to give him credit. And he’s got a better arm in terms of like energy on the ball, velocity. But there’s no elite physical trait with Ty Simpson. He’s also fit squarely in that really ugly group of inexperienced quarterbacks going to the NFL [in terms of college starts]—the Trubiskys, the Anthony Richardsons. … But the most important thing I’ll say, I promise you nine games into the year, Ty Simpson was the best quarterback in college football.”
– Todd McShay, ESPN
Recent Coaching Changes Adding to NFL Team Dynamics
In coaching developments, the Denver Broncos have announced the hiring of Kyle Kempt, the former Drake quarterbacks coach, as an offensive assistant. This move adds fresh expertise to the coaching staff, reflecting ongoing NFL personnel shifts that could impact team performance as rosters and coaching strategies evolve.
What Lies Ahead for Mekhi Becton and the Chargers’ Offense
The Chargers face a pivotal off-season in determining Mekhi Becton’s future with the team amid efforts to bolster their offensive line and enhance protection for Justin Herbert. As staff discussions progress over the next days, the team’s decisions will influence their offensive outlook and roster composition. For fans and stakeholders, clarity on Becton’s role will come after the Chargers’ meetings conclude, shedding light on how the organization plans to balance talent, player health, and team needs going forward.
Source confirms that #Broncos are hiring former Iowa State quarterback stalwart Kyle Kempt as an offensive assistant. He was offensive coordinator/quarterbacks coach last season at Drake. Before that was on Iowa State staff for six years. He was an Iowa State QB from 2016-18.
— Chris Tomasson (@christomasson) February 24, 2026
Q To GM Joe Hortiz: “Do you expect Mekhi [Becton] to be on the roster next year?”
Hortiz: “Those are things that we will discuss. We get back Sunday. All the coaches and staff will meet Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and we’ll finalize all those plans then.”
Q: “So is it… pic.twitter.com/zcRUtYatlQ
— Kris Rhim (@krisrhim1) February 24, 2026
Chargers GM Joe Hortiz pointed to scheme changes with new OC Mike McDaniel, upgrading OL and adding playmakers on offense as ways his team is working to better protect Justin Herbert this offseason. pic.twitter.com/3hfqzQKzJR
— Eric Williams (@edubnfl22) February 24, 2026
