Odell Beckham Jr.’s time with the Miami Dolphins has come to an abrupt end. After signing a one-year, $3 million deal in May, the three-time Pro Bowler’s stint in South Florida was far from what fans expected. So, why did the Dolphins decide to part ways with the star wide receiver, and what’s next for the 32-year-old?
Let’s break it down and explore the reasons behind the split and what the future holds for Odell Beckham Jr.
A Rocky Start in Miami
Beckham joined the Dolphins fresh off a one-year stint with the Baltimore Ravens, where he logged 35 catches for 565 yards and three touchdowns. However, his offseason knee surgery kept him sidelined as he started the year on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list. Once active, Beckham struggled to make an impact.
In nine games with Miami, he recorded just nine catches for 55 yards—an average of six yards per game. Brought in as a third option behind Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, Beckham never found his rhythm in Miami’s high-powered offense.
Breaking: The Miami Dolphins and wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. have agreed to a mutual release on Friday, a source confirmed to ESPN. #MiamiDolphins #OdellBeckham pic.twitter.com/cOEBk6CNMe
— Bryan Beauchamp🇺🇸🇺🇸 (@BryanBeaucham11) December 14, 2024
Coach Mike McDaniel acknowledged Beckham’s challenging road back, stating, “He had a tough start in terms of having to rehab his way into the season.”
Why Did the Dolphins Cut Ties?
The decision to release Beckham appears to be mutual. McDaniel noted, “Odell and I have been very communicative since he’s been here. We just thought it was a good time to go that direction.”
Click on ‘Follow Us’ and get notified of the most viral NFL stories via Google! Follow Us
Beckham missed two consecutive practices this week due to “personal reasons,” which may have contributed to the timing of the release. However, it’s clear his performance didn’t meet expectations. The Dolphins are in the thick of a playoff race, and carrying a struggling veteran wasn’t a fit for their plans.
Also Read: Miami Dolphins Cut Superstar Wide Receiver In Shocking Move Ahead Of Week 15 Game
The Rise and Fall of Odell Beckham Jr.
Beckham’s release is the latest chapter in a career full of dramatic highs and frustrating lows. Selected 12th overall in the 2014 NFL Draft by the New York Giants, Beckham burst onto the scene with an electric rookie season, amassing 1,305 yards and 12 touchdowns despite missing four games. His jaw-dropping one-handed touchdown catch against the Dallas Cowboys in Week 12 became an instant classic and catapulted him into stardom.
After five record-setting seasons in New York, Beckham’s career took a downturn. Traded to the Cleveland Browns in 2019, his time there was plagued by injuries and declining production. Public criticism from his father over his role in the offense led to his release in 2021.
Beckham found redemption later that season with the Los Angeles Rams, where he played a pivotal role in their Super Bowl LVI run. Unfortunately, he tore his ACL during the championship game, sidelining him for the entire 2022 season.
What’s Next for Odell Beckham Jr.?
At 32 years old, Beckham’s prime years are clearly behind him. His tenure with the Dolphins, coupled with his recent injury history, raises questions about whether he can still contribute at a high level. If he clears waivers, he’ll be free to sign with any team.
Teams looking to add depth to their receiving corps or make a playoff push might still find value in Beckham. He proved during his Rams stint that he can rise to the occasion when given the right opportunity.
For Beckham, the challenge lies in proving he still has the speed, agility, and consistency to make an impact. Another chance with a Super Bowl contender could be on the horizon—if he’s willing to accept a reduced role.
Also Read: Odell Beckham Jr. Calls Out All The Haters Who Questioned Him For Taking His $750k Salary In Bitcoin
