Odell Beckham Jr. Joins Vikings Practice Squad Following Giants Release

Odell Beckham Jr. has found a new opportunity with the Minnesota Vikings after the New York Giants released him following three games without a catch. The Vikings officially added Beckham to their practice squad on October 7, 2026, aiming to bolster their receiving corps amid injury concerns. This move comes shortly after his release from the Giants, where he saw limited action and was targeted only once across 20 snaps.

The Vikings' receiving group has been thin, particularly with star receiver Justin Jefferson sidelined by an ankle injury since Week 3. In Jefferson's absence, Jordan Addison has shouldered most of the workload, but no other receiver has made a significant impact. Coaches are looking to add depth and experience, and Beckham's familiarity with offensive coordinator Kevin O’Connell, dating back to their time together with the Rams' 2021 Super Bowl-winning team, adds a layer of potential value.

Beckham, now 33, faces questions about his ability to contribute at a high level after a quiet start to the season and limited recent production. Nevertheless, the Vikings are taking a low-risk chance by signing him to the practice squad, providing Beckham with a platform to prove he can still compete. Whether this stint leads to active roster promotion will depend on his performance in practice and the health status of the current receiving group.

For the Giants, releasing Beckham after the first three games marked a quick end to a reunion that began with optimism in training camp. His departure highlights the team’s shifting priorities and roster evaluations early in the 2026 season. Meanwhile, for the Vikings, this signing represents a practical attempt to address immediate depth concerns without committing to a long-term contract.