Odell Beckham Jr. could be cleared by start of minicamp

New York Giants wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. could be medically cleared by the start of the team’s mandatory minicamp next week.

Beckham missed the final twelve games of 2017 after suffering a fractured ankle. He did not participate in Monday’s voluntary OTA workout but head coach Pat Shurmur said he expects Beckham to be cleared in time for the minicamp, which begins on Tuesday.

Shurmur said he not only expects to be attend the mandatory minicamp but also to return to form once the regular season rolls around.

“We expect him to be one of the best receivers in the game,” Shurmur said. “One thing about OBJ—this young man loves to play football and he loves being a Giant.”

Beckham finished each of his first three NFL seasons with at least 90 receptions, 1,300 yards, and 10 touchdowns. In 2017, he finished with just 25 receptions for 302 yards and three touchdowns in four games. Beckham did participate in team drills back in April. He has also participated in the team’s voluntary OTAs, albeit on a limited basis.

2018 will be a big year for Beckham. He will play under the final year of his rookie contract. Beckham can become an unrestricted free agent of the Giants do not sign him to an extension. Beckham will command big money in free agency (barring re-signing with the Giants) if he has a productive season and avoids injury.

Having Beckham cleared for the team’s mandatory minicamp would be a huge victory. He needs time in the new offense Shurmur is installing. In addition, OBJ needs to get re-acquainted with Eli Manning. The Giants are looking for more balance on the offensive side of the ball. The hope is that Manning and Beckham won’t be under as much pressure to carry the offense, which could lead to the electrifying plays Beckham is known for.

Shurmur said he doesn’t expect Beckham’s contract situation to become a problem or a distraction but advised that his star receiver hasn’t been cleared just yet.

“(General manager) Dave (Gettleman) said it already, contracts will get done when they get done,” Shumur said. “We’re not worried (about the time contract negotiations normally take). My experience with Odell has been he wants to play football and he’s looking forward to get out here. He isn’t quite ready with his…he hasn’t quite finished his rehab yet. So, he can’t do everything totally.”

– Curtis Rawls is a Managing Editor for Full Press Coverage and covers the NFL and the New York Giants. Please like and follow on Facebook and Twitter. Curtis can be followed on Twitter @CuRawls203.