Odell Beckham Jr. has officially made the New York Giants' 53-man roster for the 2026 NFL season, securing his spot after a notable performance in training camp and preseason games. The veteran wide receiver will once again wear his signature No. 13 for the team where he first rose to prominence over a decade ago.
Beckham, now 33, expressed his excitement about the opportunity to win a championship in New York, a goal he has held since being drafted in 2014. Following a final preseason game against the New York Jets, head coach John Harbaugh congratulated Beckham on making the team.
Former NFL wide receiver Chad Ochocinco shared his thoughts on Beckham's return, telling OutKick that a healthy Beckham who can create separation and speed is still a valuable asset. "Even at 33 years old, that can still take the top off a defense? That Odell?" Ochocinco said. "I don’t need him to be the Odell of old that was with the Giants when he first got there. I don’t need him to be the Odell in his prime. I need him to be the Odell that, when your opportunities come, make the most of those opportunities. Those few opportunities he does get? He can take a slant to the house. He can make people miss. He still has flashes of greatness. I don’t need him to be the old Odell. But even at 33, Odell is still better than most of the receivers in the NFL. And not your elite receivers — let’s be realistic here."
Ochocinco acknowledged that the Giants are not expecting Beckham to be the primary target, especially with emerging talent like Malik Nabers, a fellow first-round pick from LSU. Nabers is expected to be a focal point of the offense in his third season, coming off a significant knee injury. Instead, Ochocinco believes Beckham's impact will depend on the opportunities presented to him within offensive coordinator Matt Nagy's scheme.
"Now, making an impact, it all comes down to the opportunities that he’s given. That’s what it comes down to," Ochocinco explained. "Preseason’s one thing. Now, game-planning and having plays for him, that’s a completely different animal."
Beckham's journey back to the Giants is a full-circle career moment. After being traded to the Cleveland Browns in 2019, his career has seen various ups and downs. His return to New York signifies a second chance to pursue a championship with the franchise that drafted him.
Fans are expected to see Beckham in his familiar No. 13 jersey when the Giants open their season against the Dallas Cowboys. Ochocinco, who also discussed his involvement with DraftKings' "Gameday" promotion offering free gas to fans, remains optimistic about Beckham's potential contribution.
"They got to use him. He’s special even at 33," Ochocinco concluded. "The fact he made the roster says everything you need to know: Harbaugh and the Giants believe in Beckham to make an impact — whatever that may be."