Odell Beckham Jr. to Miss Start of 2024 Season with Dolphins, Eyes Potential Week 7 Return
Miami Dolphins fans will need to wait a bit longer to see Odell Beckham Jr. in action as the star receiver is set to miss the start of the 2024 season. Beckham, who was signed by the Dolphins in May 2024, will begin the season on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list.
Beckham is sidelined for at least the first four games, ruled out for the matchups against the Jaguars, Bills, Seahawks, and Titans. Consequently, the earliest he can return is October 6, when the Dolphins face the Patriots in Week 5. However, with a bye scheduled for Week 6, there's speculation within the organization that Beckham might be held off until their Week 7 home game against the Colts.
This development raises several questions about Beckham's current physical state and readiness. The specifics of his injury remain unclear, although it's known that he underwent an unspecified "offseason procedure." Since then, Beckham has not participated in any training camp activities and has yet to practice with his new team.
Head coach Mike McDaniel addressed the uncertainty surrounding Beckham’s return, cryptically stating, "TBD. TBD, more information to acquire." Despite the vagueness, McDaniel has expressed optimism about Beckham’s mindset and his role off the field. "He's found a way to be a leader of sorts without playing. That's tough to do, but his mindset is right, so I feel good about that," McDaniel noted on August 23.
There's no doubt the Dolphins are eager to get Beckham integrated into their offensive scheme, especially coming off a promising season. However, the integration process has been delayed significantly due to Beckham’s time away from the field. Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa has highlighted the personal connection he's fostered with Beckham off the field but remained candid about the uncertainty it brings on the field. "Off the field, I've been able to hang out with him [Beckham] a good amount of times. Cool dude, 100%," Tagovailoa shared. "But does that translate? Does our relationship translate on the field? I couldn't tell you because I haven't gotten reps with him. And that's just the honest truth."
Beckham’s history of injuries adds another layer to this situation. After missing the first part of the 2023 season with the Baltimore Ravens due to an ankle injury, Beckham managed to return in time for the Ravens' playoff games. His resilience will be tested once again as he navigates through this current setback.
The Dolphins’ decision to sign Beckham was seen as a significant move to bolster their roster with a high-caliber wide receiver. Yet, the wait for Beckham’s debut has been prolonged, testing the patience of fans and the strategic planning of the coaching staff. With McDaniel at the helm and Beckham's seemingly positive influence off the field, there is cautious optimism that his eventual return could provide a mid-season boost.
As the Dolphins prepare for the start of the season, the focus will undoubtedly be on those who will step up in Beckham’s absence. Meanwhile, fans and analysts will keenly track Beckham’s progress and any updates regarding his health and readiness to return to action.
In Beckham's case, the Dolphins are undoubtedly playing the long game, prioritizing his complete recovery over a rushed return. The exact date of Beckham's return may be shrouded in uncertainty, but his potential impact, should he return fully fit, could be the difference-maker in a tightly contested season.