Former NFL Safety Warns Jets (and Others) That Odell Beckham ‘Has Lost Some of the Explosion

Wide receiver Odell Beckham, previously a first-round draft pick by the Giants and having navigated several NFL teams since his 2019 trade to the Browns, remains without a team. His high-profile status is unlikely to result in a signing until after the draft, when teams may reassess their receiving needs.

NFL general managers are currently reluctant to offer Beckham a long-term contract due to his age (30) and injury history. They also consider that the draft might yield younger and less expensive receiving talent.

Matt Bowen, an ESPN analyst and former NFL safety, ranks Beckham as the premier remaining free agent, though he cautions that Beckham has lost some of the dynamic explosiveness that once made him a top player.

Bowen elaborates:

Beckham missed the entire 2022 season following an ACL tear during the Rams’ Super Bowl LVI win in February. If his knee passes medical evaluations, he could still serve effectively as a No. 2 receiver. In 2021, while with the Rams, Beckham amassed 48 receptions for 593 yards and seven touchdowns. Although his explosive play has diminished, his precise route-running allows him to secure separation.

An unnamed NFL executive expressed skepticism about Beckham’s potential drawbacks, despite recognizing his talent. With Aaron Rodgers reportedly wanting to team up with Beckham, the Jets might show interest.

The executive compared Beckham’s situation to Tom Brady’s interest in Antonio Brown, noting, “Beckham remains talented but may come with unknown issues. His past diva behavior has lessened with maturity, but a $10-12 million contract might be excessive.”

At 30, Beckham is a sought-after free agent this offseason. He recently held a private workout before free agency began, about 13 months after his ACL injury in Super Bowl 56 with the Rams. He denied a rumor of seeking a $20 million annual salary, stating on social media that a $4 million offer was too low.

A scout recommended Beckham as a valuable one-year signing to prove his worth, especially if he could be the player to push a team towards a Super Bowl. If Rodgers is interested, the scout advised that the Jets should strongly consider acquiring him.