Chargers OL Mekhi Becton active for season opener in Brazil

The Los Angeles Chargers are set to open their 2025 NFL regular season against the Kansas City Chiefs in Brazil, with offensive lineman Mekhi Becton confirmed as active despite an illness earlier in the day. Becton, who signed a two-year, $20 million deal during the offseason, is expected to start at right guard, filling a critical role given the absence of injured starting left tackle Rashawn Slater. Becton has experience with the Philadelphia Eagles, contributing to their recent Super Bowl win, and spent his first four NFL seasons with the New York Jets. The Chargers have seven players inactive for the game, including safety RJ Mickens and tight end Tucker Fisk, while the Chiefs will be without several key players such as rookie wide receiver Jalen Royals and tight end Jared Wiley. Kansas City, coached by Andy Reid, has a strong record in season openers, having won 10 of their last 12. The game is scheduled to kick off at 5 p.m. PT, marking a significant start for both teams as the Chargers aim to build on last season's playoff appearance and the Chiefs seek a fourth consecutive Super Bowl appearance.