Giants Cut Odell Beckham Jr. After Three Games of Minimal Impact

Key points

• The Giants released Odell Beckham Jr. on September 29, 2026, following a three-game stint with minimal impact.
• Beckham played only 19 snaps total, receiving one target and recording zero catches across the first three weeks.
• The move follows Beckham making the 53-man roster in late August after a strong preseason performance against the Jets.
• The Giants may have released Beckham early to attract trade interest for his league-minimum contract, potentially securing a conditional draft pick.
• The team signed punt returner Braxton Berrios to the active roster, filling the void left by Beckham's departure.

Background

Beckham’s return to the Giants was initially viewed as a potential revival of his early-career success. In late August, coach John Harbaugh confirmed Beckham had earned a roster spot after catching three passes for 53 yards in a preseason win against the Jets. This decision came amid roster uncertainty following the season-ending injury of Calvin Austin III. Beckham successfully navigated the final cuts to make the 53-man roster, but his subsequent lack of playing time in the regular season led to his eventual release.

How outlets are covering it

NBC Sports and NFL.com agree that Beckham’s release was unsurprising due to his negligible playing time, with NFL.com citing 19 total snaps and zero catches. NBC Sports suggests the Giants may have released him early to solicit trade offers, noting that teams like the Rams or 49ers might offer a conditional seventh-round pick for his league-minimum salary. ESPN’s coverage was unavailable due to a server error, but NFL.com notes that Beckham’s inability to play special teams made his retention difficult despite a thin wide receiver room. Both sources highlight that Malik Nabers, Malachi Fields, and Darnell Mooney have dominated target share, leaving no clear role for Beckham.

Why it matters

The release of a former franchise icon underscores the Giants’ focus on efficiency and current performance over sentiment. It also highlights the team’s strategic approach to roster management, potentially leveraging Beckham’s contract for draft capital. For Beckham, the move raises questions about his future in the NFL, as he may need to find a new team or retire, ending a chapter that began with three consecutive Pro Bowls.

What to watch

Beckham will become a free agent unless a team trades for him. The Giants have already signed Braxton Berrios to the active roster, addressing their need for a punt returner. Beckham may explore opportunities with other teams seeking wide receiver depth, though his age and recent lack of playing time could limit his options.