Odell Beckham Jr. to Miss Start of 2024 Season with Dolphins
The Miami Dolphins will be without star wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. for the beginning of the 2024 NFL season. Beckham, who joined the Dolphins in May 2024, will start the season on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list, sidelining him for at least the first four games. This absence comes after Beckham underwent an unspecified offseason procedure, which has kept him from participating in any training camp activities.
Beckham's absence will be felt in the early part of the season. He is set to miss matchups against the Jacksonville Jaguars in Week 1, Buffalo Bills in Week 2, Seattle Seahawks in Week 3, and the Tennessee Titans in Week 4. According to the NFL's PUP list rules, the earliest Beckham can return is October 6, making his potential comeback game against the New England Patriots in Week 5. However, with the Dolphins' bye scheduled for Week 6, there is speculation that the team might opt to hold off Beckham's return until their Week 7 home game against the Indianapolis Colts.
Head coach Mike McDaniel has provided limited information on Beckham's status, succinctly stating, "TBD. TBD, more information to acquire." Despite his absence from the field, McDaniel appreciates Beckham's off-field contributions, noting, "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's remarks highlight Beckham's evolving role within the team, even as he remains on the sidelines.
Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa has also spoken about Beckham. Tagovailoa, who leads the Dolphins' offense, shared insights into his budding relationship with Beckham, saying, "Off the field, I've been able to hang out with him a good amount of times. Cool dude, 100%." However, Tagovailoa candidly added, "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." This sentiment echoes the uncertainty surrounding Beckham's integration into the Dolphins' offense once he returns.
During the 2023 season, Beckham played for the Baltimore Ravens, where he missed two games early in the season due to an ankle injury. He managed to recover in time to contribute to the Ravens' playoff run, playing in both of their postseason games. The specifics of Beckham's current injury remain unclear, but the hope is that he can bring the same resilience and determination to his tenure with the Dolphins.
The Dolphins are coming off a promising season and had high hopes for the 2024 campaign with Beckham in their lineup. His signing in May was seen as a significant acquisition, poised to bolster their receiving corps. Despite the setback, the team's management remains optimistic about Beckham's eventual return and the impact he will have.
The timeline for Beckham's return is still up in the air, with the team weighing the best approach to integrate him back into the lineup without rushing his recovery. As the Dolphins navigate the first few games without one of their star receivers, the focus will be on maintaining momentum and preparing for Beckham's anticipated return post-bye week.