Odell Beckham and the Rams made their NFL union official last Thursday. But as a source close to the experience relayed to Pro Football Talk, the days-long journey could be summed up in two words: “a cluster.”
Beckham, who cleared waivers last week after two-plus seasons in Cleveland, had been linked to a number of teams before deciding on the Rams, including the Patriots and Packers. The source told PFT that some of the clubs in the market for Beckham’s services have yet to be notified by the receiver’s camp that they’re no longer in the mix. And, if that isn’t dizzying enough, the three-time Pro Bowler reportedly flip-flopped on his landing spot, allegedly telling former Browns teammates as of Wednesday that he would sign with the Chiefs, according to the report.
“Never a dull moment,” another insider, whose team had Beckham on their radar, told the site.
Before Beckham made up his mind , ESPN reported that the 29-year-old receiver wanted to land with a contender. By Thursday afternoon, two were in the mix: the Rams and the Packers. And while there was a bit of confusion ahead of the official announcement — with multiple NFL reporters tweeting contradicting information about where Beckham was headed — the former Giants star ultimately felt the “love” from LA.
“He loved the recruiting aspect of it,” an insider added.
Beckham and the Rams agreed to a one-year deal worth up to $4.25 million. He’s expected to make his debut with the team during “Monday Night Football” against the 49ers and will be wearing No. 3. ESPN reported Sunday that Beckham’s jersey number was “one of the holdups” in the negotiations as the receiver had discussed the possibility of wearing either No. 1, 3, or 13, which he has worn throughout his NFL career. Backup quarterback John Wolford currently wears No. 13 while injured running back Cam Akers has worn No. 3.
Despite the hiccups (or headaches), no one seems more excited about a change of scenery than Beckham. And judging by his latest hype video, he’s ready to make a run with the Rams.