Odell Beckham Jr. Set to Miss Start of 2024 Season with Dolphins
Odell Beckham Jr.'s highly anticipated debut with the Miami Dolphins will have to wait. The star wide receiver, who was signed by the Dolphins in May, will begin the season on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list, sidelining him for at least the first four games of the 2024 season.
This move ensures that Beckham, who has yet to practice with his new team, won't see action against the Jaguars (Week 1), Bills (Week 2), Seahawks (Week 3), and Titans (Week 4). The earliest Beckham can return is October 6, when the Dolphins travel to New England for a Week 5 matchup against the Patriots. With a bye scheduled for Week 6, there is speculation that the Dolphins might hold off Beckham's return until Week 7 for their home game against the Colts.
Beckham's health status has been shrouded in mystery since his arrival in Miami. Following an unspecified "offseason procedure," he has been unable to take part in any training camp activities. Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel, when asked recently about Beckham's status, responded, "TBD. TBD, more information to acquire."
Despite his absence from the field, McDaniel highlighted Beckham's off-field contributions to the team. "He's found a way to be a leader of sorts without playing. That's tough to do, but his mindset is right, so I feel good about that," McDaniel remarked on August 23.
However, Beckham's injury has prevented him from developing in-game chemistry with Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. "Off the field, I've been able to hang out with him [Beckham] a good amount of times. Cool dude, 100%," Tagovailoa shared with reporters. "But does that translate? Does our relationship translate on the field? I couldn't tell you because I haven't gotten reps with him. And that's just the honest truth."
McDaniel and the Dolphins coaching staff face the challenge of integrating Beckham into the team's offensive plans without the benefit of pre-season practice. While Beckham's talent is undeniable, the lack of on-field reps with Tagovailoa is a significant concern. Building the necessary quarterback-receiver synergy is crucial, especially given Beckham's impact potential when healthy.
Beckham's recent history adds another layer to the story. He spent the 2023 season with the Baltimore Ravens, where he missed two games early in the season due to an ankle injury but returned to contribute down the stretch, including in their two playoff games. The specifics of his current injury remain unclear, but it has been serious enough to keep him out of the entire training camp.
The Dolphins, coming off a promising season, had high hopes that Beckham's addition would elevate their receiving corps. His proven track record as a game-changing receiver made him a marquee signing. The team and its fans will now have to wait a bit longer to see what Beckham can bring to the table in Miami colors.
As Beckham continues his recovery, the Dolphins will rely on their current roster to navigate the early part of the season. The hope is that once Beckham is able to take the field, he will make an immediate impact, providing Tagovailoa with another dynamic target and elevating the Dolphins' offensive threat level.
For now, Beckham's journey with the Dolphins begins not on the field but in rehabilitation and preparation, setting the stage for a much-anticipated debut whenever he is cleared to play.