Odell Beckham Jr: Giants Release, Why Was He Released and What Happened?

Odell Beckham Jr. has been released by the New York Giants, bringing his second stint with the franchise to an end after just three games in the 2026 NFL season. The veteran wide receiver returned to the team that drafted him in 2014, hoping to revive his career and finish where his NFL journey began. However, limited playing time and a lack of opportunities led to his departure.

The Giants released Beckham on September 29, 2026, after he recorded just one target and no receptions in three regular-season appearances. His return initially attracted attention from Giants fans, but he struggled to secure a consistent role in the team’s offense. The move also allowed New York to make room for veteran wide receiver and return specialist Braxton Berrios.

Beckham’s release has raised questions about why the Giants moved on from the three-time Pro Bowl receiver, whether he requested his release and what could happen next in his NFL career.

Did the Giants Release Odell Beckham Jr.?

Yes, the New York Giants released Odell Beckham Jr. on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, following three regular-season games during his comeback with the franchise.

Beckham signed with the Giants in June 2026, returning to the organization that selected him with the 12th overall pick in the 2014 NFL Draft. The reunion was an opportunity for the veteran receiver to return to familiar surroundings after spending time with several other NFL teams.

However, his role remained limited during the opening three games of the season. According to NFL reports, Beckham played only 19 offensive snaps, received one target and failed to record a catch. His lack of involvement made it difficult for him to contribute to the team’s passing attack.

The Giants ultimately decided to release him rather than continue carrying him on the active roster. The decision ended his second stint in New York after only a few weeks of regular-season action.

Why Did the Giants Release Odell Beckham Jr.?

The Giants released Beckham primarily because he was not receiving enough playing time to make a meaningful contribution to the offense.

Despite his experience and previous success in New York, Beckham struggled to establish a regular role in the team’s receiving rotation. The Giants had other wide receivers handling most of the offensive opportunities, leaving limited chances for the veteran.

Several factors contributed to the decision.

• Limited playing time: Beckham appeared in only three games and played fewer than 20 offensive snaps, according to NFL reporting.

• No receptions: He received one target but did not catch a pass during his second stint with the Giants.

• Competition at wide receiver: Players such as Malik Nabers, Malachi Fields and Darnell Mooney were receiving most of the team’s targets.

• Roster flexibility: The Giants needed to adjust their roster and added Braxton Berrios to contribute as a return specialist and wide receiver.

• Limited special teams role: Beckham was not contributing on special teams, reducing his overall value to the active roster.

   

The Giants had hoped Beckham could provide experience and help strengthen their receiving group. However, with limited opportunities available, the team decided to move in a different direction.

Was Odell Beckham Jr. Released or Traded by the Giants?

Beckham was released by the Giants in September 2026, but his original departure from New York in 2019 was a trade, not a release.

The Giants selected Beckham with the 12th overall pick in the 2014 NFL Draft. He quickly became one of the team’s most recognizable players, earning NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year honors and making three consecutive Pro Bowls.

In March 2019, the Giants traded Beckham to the Cleveland Browns. The move ended his first stint with New York after five seasons, during which he became one of the franchise’s leading receivers.

His return in June 2026 created a new chapter in his career. However, the second stint lasted only three regular-season games before the Giants released him.

Odell Beckham Jr. Giants Release: Career Stats

Beckham established himself as a productive NFL receiver during his first five seasons with the Giants. His ability to make difficult catches, create yards after the catch and produce spectacular plays made him a major part of the team’s offense.

His production with the Giants during his original stint helped establish his reputation as one of the league’s standout receivers. His famous one-handed catch against the Dallas Cowboys in 2014 remains one of the most memorable plays of his career.

Beckham later played for the Cleveland Browns, Los Angeles Rams, Baltimore Ravens and Miami Dolphins. He also won Super Bowl LVI with the Rams, adding a championship to his professional achievements.

Odell Beckham Jr.’s Second Giants Stint in 2026

Beckham’s return to the Giants in June 2026 generated interest because he was rejoining the team where he had enjoyed the strongest statistical period of his career.

The Giants signed him after a workout with team officials. At 33, Beckham was attempting to return to NFL action after not playing during the previous season.

He made the initial 53-man roster after training camp, demonstrating that he had secured a place on the team. However, his opportunities during the regular season were limited.

Across three games, he received just one target and did not record a reception. His limited offensive involvement meant that he could not build momentum or establish a regular connection with the team’s quarterback.

The Giants eventually decided to end the reunion, releasing Beckham on September 29.

Who Replaced Odell Beckham Jr. on the Giants?

The Giants added veteran wide receiver Braxton Berrios to their active roster as part of the corresponding roster changes.

Berrios brings experience as a receiver and return specialist. His ability to contribute on special teams gave the Giants another option as they adjusted their roster.

The move reflected the team’s immediate roster needs rather than Beckham’s previous accomplishments. With Beckham not playing special teams and seeing little offensive action, the Giants opted for a player who could offer additional contributions.

Did Odell Beckham Jr. Request His Release?

There has been no indication in the cited reporting that Beckham requested his release. Reports stated that the Giants made the decision to move on after his limited involvement in the offense.

Beckham had returned to New York with the opportunity to continue his career with the franchise that originally drafted him. His departure after just three games ended that opportunity sooner than expected.

His release does not, by itself, mean that he has officially retired from professional football.

What Is Next for Odell Beckham Jr. After His Release?

Beckham is now available to pursue another opportunity in the NFL, although his next destination has not been confirmed.

His experience, career production and Super Bowl victory could be relevant to teams looking for veteran depth at wide receiver. However, his limited playing time during the 2026 season may also influence how teams evaluate him.

At this stage, there is no confirmed agreement with another NFL franchise. Whether Beckham continues playing or considers ending his career remains uncertain.

His release also marks a significant moment for Giants fans, who had hoped to see the former star make a meaningful contribution during his return to New York.

Frequently Asked Questions

Did the Giants release Odell Beckham Jr.?

Yes. The New York Giants released Odell Beckham Jr. on September 29, 2026, after three games during his second stint with the team.

Why was Odell Beckham Jr. released?

The Giants released Beckham because he had a limited offensive role, recording one target and no receptions in three games. The team also needed roster flexibility and added Braxton Berrios.

When did the Giants release Odell Beckham Jr.?

The Giants released Beckham on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, ending his comeback with the franchise.

Was Odell Beckham Jr. traded or released by the Giants?

Both, at different times. The Giants traded Beckham to the Cleveland Browns in 2019. They released him in September 2026 after his return to New York.

Did Odell Beckham Jr. catch a pass for the Giants in 2026?

No. Beckham recorded no receptions during his three regular-season appearances with the Giants in 2026.

Is Odell Beckham Jr. retiring from the NFL?

His release does not confirm his retirement. His future in professional football remains uncertain, and no subsequent team signing has been confirmed in the cited reports.

Conclusion

The New York Giants’ release of Odell Beckham Jr. on September 29, 2026, brought his second stint with the franchise to a quick end. Despite returning with hopes of contributing to the team, he recorded just one target and no catches in three games.

The Giants chose to adjust their roster and bring in Braxton Berrios, while Beckham became a free agent. His next career move remains uncertain, leaving open the possibility of another NFL opportunity or the end of his playing career.