The NFL trade deadline has come and gone, Odell Beckham remains on the Cleveland Browns roster. There was some speculation that the Green Bay Packers would be interested in acquiring his services, as Beckham would complement Davante Adams nicely. It has been frustrating for the Browns front office, as Odell Beckham Jr has underperformed tremendously during his tenure with the team. Despite how athletically gifted Odell is, he is a big distraction in the locker room. It all started when Odell was on a party boat in Miami shortly after losing to the Green Bay Packers in the wild card game. Later during his Giants tenure, Odell had an on-field dispute with cornerback Josh Norman and also was seen knocking over the kicking screen on the sidelines. Unfortunately, Odell has been plagued by injuries, especially considering he is in the prime of his career.
In his first season in 2019, Odell Beckham played in 16 games and had a decent season as he caught 74 passes for 1,035 yards and hauled in four touchdowns. Last season Odell’s season got cut short as he tore his ACL in his left knee and only played in 7 games. Odell caught 23 passes for 319 yards and had three touchdowns. This season, Odell Beckham has caught 17 passes for 232 yards without a touchdown grab. Odell has already been on the inactive list a few times as he has been dealing with shoulder injuries. Caliber players such as
Odell Beckham Jr cannot make excuses for their poor performance and must take responsibility and strive to do better for the team’s sake.
Odell Beckham Sr. posted on social media, that Browns quarterback Baker Mayfield is the main reason his son has failed in Cleveland. Baker Mayfield’s response was short and simple, “If he is back we’ll work through it.” That is a sign of a true team leader which is exactly what Baker is as he is willing to help, it also shows he is all about the team and is a true professional. Baker is willing to sit down and talk to Odell if given the opportunity, which Odell should consider doing so he does not burn any bridges with the Browns organization. This situation has become toxic and awkward, which does not only affects the team’s chemistry, but it can derail the remainder of the season. Coach Kevin Stefanski and general manager Andrew Berry must take action and discuss this situation with Odell and Baker quickly to move on with the season.
Odell is no longer a member of the team as he was excused from practice two days in a row, as he is seeking to be released since he was not traded before the trade deadline expired.
Without a doubt, Cleveland must trade Odell this offseason as he is under contract for one more year with a salary cap hit of over 13 million. Cleveland would lose out on receiving any compensation for him if they lean towards releasing him.
Time will tell what the Browns will do, but it is important to save the money and get rid of the aggravation that comes with Odell Beckham Jr.