Odell Beckham Jr. explains new role in 'surreal' Giants reunion: 'I'm here to earn it'

No, Giants fans, your eyes are not deceiving you. Odell Beckham Jr. is back in Giants blue speaking to the media like it's 2018 all over again. 

New York signed Beckham to the veteran minimum Monday after a workout with the team. He will earn $1.3 million in 2026 to serve as a wide receiver and mentor to a young Giants team. 

Beckham spent five seasons with the Giants from 2014-18, including an Offensive Rookie of the Year win in 2014. Now, the veteran is back at 33 years old to spread his wisdom and potentially earn a role on the team. 

Here is what Beckham said about his return to the Giants. 

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Why Odell Beckham Jr. is returning to Giants

Beckham is returning to the Giants as a chance to prove that he can still compete for a spot on an NFL roster. After serving a suspension for the first six games of last season, Beckham could never find his way onto a roster for the latter two thirds of the season. 

After some time away from the game, Beckham has another chance to show teams that he can still contribute to the NFL roster. 

"Nothing was given to me, so I came here to earn it," Beckham told reporters. 

— Ralph Vacchiano (@RalphVacchiano) June 3, 2026

Beckham is not viewed simply as a wide receiver who can make catches and run. He is also viewed as a veteran presence in the locker room, who can be a mentor to younger players. Malik Nabers is commonly mentioned as one of these younger athletes, as he was drafted in the first round in 2024. 

"I think I can be an asset to him," Beckham said. "However I can help him or anybody else, trust me, I know all the things to do and I know the things not to do." 

— Ralph Vacchiano (@RalphVacchiano) June 3, 2026

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How old is Odell Beckham Jr.?

Beckham is currently 33 years old. He will turn 34 on November 5, ahead of the Giants' Week 9 matchup with the Eagles. 

Odell Beckham Jr. contract 

Beckham is signed to the veteran minimum of 1-year, $1.3 million. This deal is non-guaranteed, meaning that there is no roster spot set aside for Beckham. He will instead need to earn his way onto the team.