On Friday, the Cleveland Brownsmet with representatives of Odell Beckham Jr. to negotiate an agreement on terms under which they would release the wide receiver.
“After careful consideration, internal discussions and conversations with Odell and his representation, we’ve determined that it is in the best interest of all parties involved that Odell no longer play for the Cleveland Browns,” said Browns GM Andrew Berry in a statement. “We appreciate all his efforts and contributions while in Cleveland, but we’ve just reached a point where it is best that we move forward as a team without Odell. We are finalizing the process of granting Odell his release and we wish him well as he continues his career.”
Once the contract is finalized – expected to be anytime in the next few days – Beckham will be released. He can’t be claimed on waivers until next week.
Beckham was told not to attend Wednesday’s practice one day after his father posted a video on Instagram highlighting times when quarterback Baker Mayfield either didn’t throw the ball to Beckham or missed him when he was open. Beckham was then excused again from practice for a second consecutive day Thursday as both sides tried to find a resolution.
Cleveland coach Kevin Stefanski addressed the team before Wednesday’s practice and informed players that Beckham would no longer be a Brown as the team prepared for Sunday’s game against the Cincinnati Bengals.
Although Beckham insisted he was happy in Cleveland, where he was reunited with former college teammate and close friend Jarvis Landry, he didn’t seem to like not being in a big market. He reportedly told opponents on the field during pregame warmups to “come get me” in the offseason.
It is still unknown when Beckham will be released, one thing is for sure, the Browns will have to scramble to fill that void Beckham will leave for the team.
