Cleveland Browns officially part ways with Odell Beckham Jr.

The Odell Beckham Jr. era in Cleveland is over.

After reports that the Browns would release the wide receiver, the team made it official on Friday morning. Andrew Berry, Cleveland’s executive Vice President of football operations and general manager, released a statement following the termination.

“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,” the statement reads. “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.”

The eighth-year player is in his third season in Cleveland and will become a free agent should he clear the waiver process. The Browns are reportedly going to revise the wideout’s contract in an effort to lower the amount they owe him as a result of his termination if he is not claimed by another team. Beckham will try to avoid having the payment drop to a point where he is claimed by another team at the lower price. 

The issue is complicated by the fact that the NFL trade deadline passed earlier this week.

The move comes after a tumultuous few days in Cleveland for the former LSU star. On Tuesday, his father posted a video compilation showing times when his son was open downfield and Browns quarterback Baker Mayfield did not throw to him. Arguably the most recognizable name in sports, formed Cleveland Cavalier LeBron James also tweeted “#FreeOBJ” on Tuesday.

Beckham was excused from practice on both Wednesday and Thursday as a result on the ongoing controversy, effectively suspending him without pay.

Beckham had 114 receptions for 1,586 yards and eight total touchdowns in Cleveland. He started 28 of the 29 games in which he played.

Who needs WR help?

Beckham is one of the more electric wide receivers in the NFL, and several teams may be looking for a late-season bump in that department.

ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler believes the following teams need pass-catching assistance: Las Vegas Raiders, New Orleans Saints, Seattle Seahawks, Carolina Panthers, San Francisco 49ers and Green Bay Packers.

The Saints were reportedly in talks with Beckham, a New Orleans native, but they fell through for now. The Raiders no longer have receiver Henry Ruggs III, so they could be in the market to add a dynamic playmaker as the 5-2 team looks to keep control of the AFC West.