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Free-agent wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. continues to seek a contract that would pay him around $15 million per year. According to Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer, this figure is lower than what Beckham Jr. had previously demanded, which was $20 million per year.
The figure is what Beckham has reportedly been seeking at least up to appearance at the Arizona Biltmore on Tuesday this week. Breer noted that showing up at the hotel where the owners’ meetings were taking place was a savvy move from a business standpoint, indicating that the negotiations are still ongoing.
Odell reportedly met several teams during the day, including the Ravens and Jets.
While Beckham Jr.’s talent as a wide receiver is undeniable, his demands for a high salary are not without controversy. Some experts believe that his past performance may not justify such a large contract, especially considering his age – he will turn 31 in November.
However, others argue that Beckham Jr. still has a lot to offer and that landing in the right spot is crucial for him. Before his injury in the Super Bowl, he was having a successful run with the Rams, catching 21 passes for 288 yards and two touchdowns in the 2021 postseason.
Beckham Jr.’s demands may not only be about money, but also about other factors such as geography, coaching, and the potential for winning. As a veteran player with several successful seasons behind him, he likely has a clear idea of what he wants from his next team.
Over the course of his career, Beckham Jr. has caught 531 passes for 7,367 yards and 56 touchdowns while playing for the Giants, Browns, and Rams. Whether or not he will secure the $15 million per year contract he desires remains to be seen, but one thing is for sure – his negotiations will continue to be a hot topic.