Beckham Joins Vikings Practice Squad After Giants Release

Odell Beckham Jr. joined the Minnesota Vikings’ practice squad after the New York Giants released him on September 29, saying Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell’s personal outreach and the sense that the team wanted him influenced his decision. The move does not place Beckham on Minnesota’s 53-player active roster, and the team has not confirmed whether he will play in an upcoming game. Beckham discussed his decision with reporters after signing on Wednesday. He said he had previously worked with O’Connell with the Los Angeles Rams and valued the coach’s confidence and belief in him. O’Connell contacted him about joining Minnesota, Beckham said, and that made the opportunity appealing. “It’s always good to be somewhere where you’re wanted,” Beckham said, according to remarks reported after the signing. He added that the situation came together quickly and that feeling supported mattered when deciding where to continue his career. The Giants released Beckham on September 29, ending his second stint with the team. He had made New York’s 53-player roster, but recorded no catches on one target before being waived, according to one account.