Key Highlights
- Odell Beckham Jr. could make his NFL comeback after a year’s absence.
- Baltimore Ravens, Kansas City Chiefs, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Buffalo Bills are among the teams considering adding Beckham.
- Beckham has previously worked with Lamar Jackson in Baltimore and played for the 2023 season there.
- The Chiefs were one of the teams Beckham considered in 2024 free agency.
The NFL Season Returns: Where Could Odell Beckham Jr. Play?
NFL fans are eagerly awaiting the return of wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr., who is eligible to sign a new contract after his suspension ends before Week 12. The wide receiver, known for his dynamic plays and Pro Bowl appearances with the New York Giants, has not played since December 2024 when he was released by the Miami Dolphins following a mutual decision. This move came amidst concerns about Beckham’s rehab progress and sporadic usage in games.
Beckham’s Suspension and Recent Developments
In an October episode of the Pivot Podcast, Beckham admitted to accepting a six-game suspension for testing positive for performance-enhancing drugs during the 2024 season. His return could bring valuable experience and leadership to teams looking to strengthen their receiving corps in the latter stages of the 2025 campaign.
Top Landing Spots: A Closer Look
Baltimore Ravens: The Ravens have a history with Beckham, having worked together under quarterback Lamar Jackson. In the 2023 season, he made 35 catches for 565 yards and three touchdowns in 14 games. With Derrick Henry leading a run-heavy offense and Zay Flowers, Rashod Bateman, and DeAndre Hopkins already filling key roles, the team might consider adding Beckham to provide depth.
Kansas City Chiefs: According to Jeremy Fowler, Kansas City was one of the teams considering Beckham in 2024 free agency.
The Chiefs currently have a crowded receiver room with Rashee Rice, Xavier Worthy, and Hollywood Brown leading the pack. Travis Kelce, JuJu Smith-Schuster, and Tyquan Thornton also vie for targets. Adding Beckham could offer insurance against injuries during the final stretch of the season.
Pittsburgh Steelers: The Steelers have been busy bolstering their receiver depth with trades and acquisitions but still might seek more options to complement Calvin Austin III and Roman Wilson.
With the tight end position dealing with injuries, adding Beckham could give Pittsburgh some insurance should any top targets suffer setbacks down the stretch.
Buffalo Bills: The Bills considered signing Beckham in 2024 as well, according to Fowler. Amari Cooper’s free agency departure and subsequent retirement have left a void, with Dalton Kincaid also dealing with injuries. Adding Beckham could provide additional options for quarterback Josh Allen after his star players are sidelined.
Conclusion
The Perfect Fit?
The decision of which team will sign Odell Beckham Jr. depends on the needs and depth chart of each club. Teams looking to add veteran leadership and experience, like the Ravens, Chiefs, Steelers, and Bills, could benefit from his presence. However, integrating Beckham into a crowded receiver room requires careful consideration to ensure he can contribute effectively without disrupting established dynamics.
As teams weigh their options, one thing is certain: Odell Beckham Jr.’s return to the NFL will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike as they await the potential impact of his addition to any roster.
