Giants release wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. after three games

The New York Giants released wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. on Sept. 29, 2026, ending his brief return to the team in East Rutherford, N.J.

Beckham, who signed a non‑guaranteed one‑year veteran salary benefit contract worth $1.3 million, appeared in three games but was targeted only once and recorded no receptions. The move came as the Giants’ depth chart featured Malik Nabers, Darnell Mooney and rookie Malachi Fields ahead of him.

Beckham’s reaction appeared on a fan’s Instagram thread on Saturday. He wrote, “I’m super smart!!!! But I didn’t see this one my brotha… They got me!!!” and later expressed that the cut “broke me down” and left him wondering why the team gave him a “run‑along” that prevented him from pursuing other opportunities.

"I came in humbly, took the vet min then earned my spot and didn’t say nothing bout no $$$," Beckham said. "It didn’t hurt me but it did when they cut me like that because part of me is like I should’ve known better."

The veteran’s contract, while modest, allowed the Giants to avoid paying the full veteran minimum and carried no guaranteed money. Beckham’s former tenure with the Giants from 2014‑18 made his 2026 homecoming a notable storyline, but his on‑field contribution this season was limited.

Analysts noted that the decision was unsurprising given Beckham’s lack of production and the team’s need to allocate roster spots to younger talent. The Giants could still revisit Beckham if injuries deplete their receiving corps, though his public criticism may complicate any future negotiations.