Odell Beckham’s recent return to the New York Giants came to an abrupt end with his release from the team last week. Initially, Beckham remained silent about his departure, suggesting he appreciated the opportunity. However, a post on a fan’s Instagram account over the weekend changed the narrative.
Beckham appeared to agree with the notion that the Giants used him without fair compensation, which came as a surprise. “I’m super smart! But I didn’t see this one, my brother,” Beckham commented. “They got me!” His reaction revealed his dissatisfaction.
“They won on top of the money you’re talking about, I made them,” Beckham said. “I came in humbly, took the vet minimum, earned my spot, and didn’t say anything about the money, which I know makes for everybody.”
Beckham expressed disappointment, mentioning, “I’m a grown man, and this didn’t hurt me, but it did when they cut me like that because part of me is like I should have known better.” He signed a one-year veteran salary benefit deal, meaning the Giants didn’t owe him the veteran minimum or guaranteed money, valued at $1.3 million.
Beckham’s initial stint with the Giants from 2014-2018 had made him a beloved figure in the city. His return felt like a warm homecoming. Despite his enthusiasm, his return was more notable in the media than on the field. He was active in three games but caught zero passes.
The release affected him deeply. Beckham wrote about returning home to his son, who was unaware of his father being cut from the team. The emotional impact was profound. Beckham was frustrated, feeling the Giants had strung him along, preventing him from exploring opportunities with other teams during training camp and preseason.
“I don’t know why they even gave me the run along,” he lamented. “I could have really been playing somewhere and making an impact, speaking humbly from a place of gratitude.”
Beckham may have found some solace by sharing his side of the story publicly. Yet, airing grievances can have repercussions. Open criticism might hinder future chances with the Giants, who might have reconsidered him under different circumstances. Teams often avoid re-signing players who have made public complaints about them.
For more insights, follow Armando Salguero on X: @ARMANDOSALGUERO. Armando Salguero is OutKick’s Senior NFL Writer.
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