Odell Beckham Jr. Signs with Vikings Practice Squad After Giants Release

Key points

• Odell Beckham Jr. officially joined the Minnesota Vikings practice squad on Wednesday, October 7, 2026.
• The New York Giants released Beckham on September 29 after he recorded zero catches in three regular-season games.
• The Vikings signed Beckham to address depth issues caused by a high ankle sprain suffered by star receiver Justin Jefferson.
• Beckham previously had a successful stint with the Rams under current Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell, who was Los Angeles’ offensive coordinator during the 2021 season.
• The Vikings also signed receiver Jeshaun Jones and returned center Michael Jurgens and tight end Ben Yurosek from injured reserve.
• Beckham expressed frustration on social media regarding his release, stating, 'They got me!!!' and questioning the Giants' handling of his contract.

Background

The Vikings have been actively reshaping their roster since the final cuts in late August, adding offensive linemen via waivers and signing multiple players to the practice squad. Beckham’s arrival fills a critical gap created by Justin Jefferson’s injury, as the team’s current backups, Tai Felton and Myles Price, have limited experience. This move also follows Beckham’s previous stint with the Rams, where he caught 27 passes for 305 yards and five touchdowns in the 2021 regular season under O’Connell’s coordination.

How outlets are covering it

NBC Sports highlights the reunion aspect, noting that head coach Kevin O’Connell was the Rams’ offensive coordinator when Beckham won Super Bowl LVI. Bleacher Report emphasizes the mutual nature of the split with the Giants and Beckham’s potential to impact the offense despite his age. The New York Post focuses on Beckham’s public frustration and the Giants’ decision to cut him despite his expected role after Calvin Austin III’s injury. All sources agree on the core facts of the signing and the injury context, but differ in emphasis: NBC Sports on the coaching connection, Bleacher Report on the player’s potential, and the New York Post on the emotional fallout.

Why it matters

This signing provides the Vikings with a veteran option at wide receiver while Justin Jefferson recovers, potentially improving their offensive output. For Beckham, it offers a chance to reestablish his value in the NFL after a difficult start with the Giants. The move also reflects the Vikings’ strategy to bolster their roster with experienced players during a critical part of the season.

What to watch

The Vikings will monitor Beckham’s performance on the practice squad, with the possibility of elevating him to the active roster if Jefferson’s recovery is delayed. Beckham’s next opportunity to play could come in the upcoming game against the New Orleans Saints, where he may see action if the Vikings need additional receiving options.