Monday will be interesting.
High-profile wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. will hit the waiver wire as the Cleveland Browns have announced they will release the talented, oft-injured and sometimes complicated wide out who turned 29 years old on Friday.
Sources: The #Browns are releasing star WR Odell Beckham Jr., as the two sides came together on a resolution to end his Cleveland tenure. At long last, he’s out and he’ll head to waivers.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 5, 2021
Of course, the Las Vegas Raiders, who currently have just four receivers on the roster, have a need at the position after the shocking events that led to Henry Ruggs III’s release on Tuesday. The 5-2 Raiders currently have the 26th highest waiver priority.
The waiver priority order will change some after Week’s 9 play, however, as the Raiders play at the 2-6 New York Giants on Sunday. Many league observers believe Beckham will be claimed rather than going unclaimed and to free agency, which was the case of fellow receiver DeSean Jackson who went unclaimed Thursday after being waived by the Los Angeles Rams. He is now a free agent and he could also be of interest to the Raiders.
In terms of replacing Ruggs’ role in the offense for the rest of the season, Jackson makes more sense than Beckham because of his speed. But Beckham is a more talented all-around player than Jackson, who turns 35 next month.
I’ve received a lukewarm response on interest on OBJ from inside the Raiders’ building and there are reports that back that up.
I do not expect the Raiders to pursue Odell Beckham Jr. when he becomes available
— Michael Silver (@MikeSilver) November 5, 2021
Beckham had bad breakups with both the Giants and the Browns. He also had injury issues. He has 17 catches for 232 yards this season. Additionally, the Raiders could have an easier time fitting in Jackson than Beckham into their salary cap.
The #Raiders restructured the contract of RB Jalen Richard to create $1.06M in cap room, source said, a little wiggle room to operate.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 5, 2021
For what it’s worth, the Raiders are a betting favorite to land OBJ. Will shall see what Monday brings.