Full Breakdown
Giants Release Odell Beckham Jr. After Three Games
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
On Sept. 29, 2026 the New York Giants cut veteran wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. after three regular-season appearances. Beckham logged 20 offensive snaps, was targeted once (an 18-yard incomplete pass), and recorded zero catches. The move clears a spot for punt-returner Braxton Berrios, who had exhausted his three practice-squad elevations.
Background & Context
Beckham was selected 12th overall in the 2014 NFL Draft and spent five seasons with the Giants, compiling 390 receptions for 5,476 yards and 44 touchdowns before being traded in 2019. After stints with several teams and a suspended 2025 season, the Giants signed him to a one-year, $1.3 million veteran-minimum contract on June 1, 2026 to add depth after Calvin Austin III suffered a season-ending ACL tear.
Data & Statistics
- Snaps: 20 total (Week 1 – 11, Week 2 – 3, Week 3 – 6)
- Targets: 1 (Week 3 vs. Tennessee Titans)
- Receptions/Yards/TDs: 0/0/0 for 2026
- Career totals: 575 catches, 7,987 yards, 59 touchdowns in 122 games
Official Statements & Responses
Head coach John Harbaugh said before the Titans game that “Sunday would be great” for integrating Beckham. After the game, offensive coordinator Matt Nagy noted the staff was “slowly packaging” Beckham and that “one injury away” could increase his role, but the run-heavy scheme limited four-receiver sets. Giants officials added that Braxton Berrios needed a roster spot because he could no longer be elevated from the practice squad.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Some outlets suggested the Giants might release Beckham to generate a modest trade return, citing Mike Florio of *Pro Football Talk* who mentioned the contract pays the league minimum and a conditional seventh-round pick could be obtained. No trade materialized, and the team has not confirmed any compensation, leaving the exact financial impact unclear.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I would think Sunday would be great,” — John Harbaugh, head coach
- “He does a lot of good things well,” — Matt Nagy, offensive coordinator
- “There’s no reason for a 33-year-old wide receiver who doesn’t play special teams to take up a roster spot.” — Michael David Smith, analyst
What’s Next
The Giants are expected to promote Braxton Berrios from the practice squad to the active 53-man roster for Week 4 against the Arizona Cardinals. Backup quarterback J.J. McCarthy, acquired in a trade with Minnesota, remains on the roster. Beckham is a free agent; analysts note his lack of special-teams value makes a new NFL contract uncertain.