MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. (AP) — On Friday, the Miami Dolphins made the decision to release wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr., bringing an abrupt end to his brief spell with the team. Beckham’s journey in Miami was relatively short-lived.
Beckham had been absent from practice for the last two days, a situation the team attributed to personal matters. He initially joined the Dolphins after signing a one-year contract in May, but his season was delayed as he began on the physically unable to perform list due to knee surgery he underwent in the offseason.
Since making his debut with the Dolphins in Week 5 against the New England Patriots, Beckham recorded only nine receptions for a total of 55 yards over the course of nine games. He was expected to serve as a key third receiving option behind star players Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, yet he struggled to find his place within the Dolphins’ offensive scheme.
With the rising impact of rookie receiver Malik Washington and increased utilization of tight end Jonnu Smith, Beckham was unable to secure a consistent role in the offense. This lack of fit starkly contrasted with his earlier success; in the first five seasons of his NFL career with the New York Giants, Beckham was a celebrated star.
Following his time with the Giants, Beckham played for four different teams, including the Cleveland Browns for three seasons, as well as brief stints with the Baltimore Ravens and Los Angeles Rams, with whom he celebrated a Super Bowl victory in the 2021-22 season.
In his last season with the Ravens, Beckham recorded 35 catches for 565 yards and three touchdowns before being released in March, leaving many to wonder where his next opportunity will arise.
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