The words “generational talent” are thrown around a lot in sports theses days. However, no player in pro football exemplifies that more than Giants receiver Odell Beckham Jr. Beckham has been wowing audiences with his flash style, zany celebrations, and jaw dropping catches since he entered the league in 2014. And now it has finally paid off, as number 13 has inked a deal that makes him the highest paid at his position.
The Numbers
OBJ’s contract is reported to be a five year deal worth $95 million dollars. The contract will likely net the four year pro $65 million in guaranteed money. This is well worth it for the fastest man to haul in 250 receptions in NFL History. He has also rewritten his franchise’s record books. There can be no doubt he deserves to get paid but there is still a bit of risk even with a sure fire talent like the 2016 cover player.
The Risks both On Field…
For all his glory the Giants star does hold the distinction of a player who has missed games for injury or misbehavior. He was hurt his rookie season and missed the teams first 4 games. He is also recently coming off a broken ankle that landed him on the shelf for most of last season. Furthermore injuries are not the only thing that have taken Beckham off the field. A fight with CB Josh Norman cost him one game and a week’s pay.
…And Off
He has received multiple fines and has been often pentalizes for some of his celebrations and antics. Odell has been criticize off the field as well, most famously for the boat trip incident. An impromptu postseason excursion that many believe caused them a playoff game against Green Bay. So it begs the question, is he worth setting this precedent, a precedent that will shift the landscape of the league for years to come?
Who This Will Affect
There can be no doubt that Beckham’s new deal will trigger a chain reaction as far as salaries are concerned at his position. The paycheck for the likes of Julio Jones and especially Antonio Brown will definitely increase. Many believe Brown is not only as good but even better than the LSU stand out. This will only cause the Pittsburgh star to be rewarded accordingly.
The Giants’ front office must realize they have secured their own player. However, they have also set the bar for other franchises. A bar that is placing guarantees at astronomical levels. Furthermore these counterparts in an effort to seek maximum entitlements strategies such as hold outs may be used. But for now the Giants have at least given the Big Apple something to talk about.
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