Odell Beckham Jr.’s Giants comeback ended after just 19 snaps(Getty Images)
Odell Beckham Jr.’s second stint with the New York Giants ended on Tuesday after the veteran receiver played only 19 snaps across three games. Beckham did not record a catch and saw just one target during his return to the team that drafted him in 2014. Beckham had worked his way onto the Giants’ 53-man roster after a difficult summer in which he still had to prove he deserved a place on the team. He responded with a strong finish to the preseason, including seven catches for 76 yards in three games, but his regular-season involvement quickly became limited. Beckham entered the season knowing that his roster place was not guaranteed, and Harbaugh had been clear about what he expected from the 33-year-old receiver. Across the Giants’ first three games, Beckham played 19 offensive snaps and received only one target. His lone target came during New York’s 12-7 win over the Tennessee Titans on Sunday, September 27, when quarterback Jameis Winston looked his way on a pass that nearly resulted in an interception. 12 overall in the 2014 NFL Draft. His first stint produced 390 catches, 5,476 yards and 44 touchdowns in New York, along with three straight Pro Bowl selections to begin his career.
Because giants fans still wanted to see Beckham involved, the lack of opportunities became particularly noticeable. The Giants then released him, leaving John Harbaugh to explain why the reunion never developed into the offensive role Beckham and the team had hoped for.
During the Titans game, supporters at MetLife Stadium began chanting “OBJ” while the offense was on the field, but the veteran receiver remained on the sideline for most of the afternoon. He played only six snaps in that game, according to NFL reporting. Harbaugh said the Giants needed more from the roster spot and described the move as a football decision rather than an issue with Beckham personally. He also said he hoped his former player would find another team and get the opportunity to contribute.
The coach wanted Beckham to show he could still perform at a level that would allow him to contribute during NFL games, and Beckham eventually earned his place after impressing late in camp. Beckham finished the game without a reception. There was also a practical roster issue behind the decision. New York needed to move Braxton Berrios onto the active roster after using him as a practice-squad elevation during each of the first three games. NFL rules prevented the Giants from elevating Berrios again, and he offered value as a punt and kickoff returner in addition to his work at receiver. The Giants subsequently added Berrios and Charlie Jones while releasing Beckham. The coach also rejected the idea that Beckham’s name or the attention around his return influenced the decision. The release brings an abrupt end to Beckham’s second chapter with the Giants, the team that selected him No.