The buzz around Odell Beckham Jr. is palpable at New York Giants training camp, with the wide receiver making notable plays and drawing attention from fans and teammates alike. His performance in recent practices has been a focal point, generating a different level of energy on the field.
Beckham has been running primarily with the starters in recent days, demonstrating strong play. Highlights include a juggling catch in a one-on-one drill against Jevon Holland, a weaving catch-and-run, and a deep grab down the sideline during Wednesday's practice. This activity follows a strong performance the previous day, which he aimed to surpass.
"I feel like I'm getting better with repetition," Beckham said. "Unfortunately I'm one of those people who has to touch the stove to know that it's hot and to not touch it again, so I learn from a mistake and it's like, ‘All right, that’s something that I corrected.’ "
Reflecting on his current role and performance, Beckham drew a comparison to basketball star LeBron James. "LeBron James used to take off before the free-throw line, and now he’s taking off with his foot right in front of it. He’s got a different game, but he’s still playing at a high level. I believe that I can play at a high level," Beckham stated. He added that he thrives under pressure and competition, noting that he puts pressure on himself to make plays and feels he rises to the occasion.
Head coach John Harbaugh acknowledged Beckham's efforts, noting his strong plays and his address to the team during a morning meeting. "He’s working hard and he got some balls that came his way and he made some great plays," Harbaugh said. "He addressed the team, and he did a great job with that. So, maybe that was the football gods right there. You never know."
Initially starting camp with the second-team receivers, Beckham has shown a more measured approach. Unlike in the past, where he might have expressed frustration, he now quietly returns to the line for the next rep. "I kind of like it," Beckham said. "My boy texted me, he’s like, ‘This is where you thrive.’ When I have pressure, I live for it."
His previous season with the Ravens in 2023 saw him record 35 catches for 565 yards on 465 offensive snaps under Harbaugh. Beckham feels he is improving with each repetition.
Giants tight end Isaiah Likely, a former teammate of Beckham's with the Ravens, commented on his presence. "He’s looked like O.," Likely said. "Just seeing him really be able to understand the position he’s in. When the young guys ask him how he did it the right way when he was at the top of the top, prime Odell. And then obviously, the dark-days Odell, which he’ll tell you as well. And really just how he stayed the course and just honed in and understanding that when he’s out here, he’s giving you the best version of himself."
Beckham emphasized that his return to the Giants is a personal endeavor, aimed at proving himself. "If this comes off selfish, sorry, but this is for me," he said. "This is to prove to myself. It’s never really been to prove it to others, but it’s always fun when you can prove it to others. But this is for me, this is for my son. In our household, we never give up, you know what I'm saying? No matter what it is, you’re going to finish what you started."