Odell Beckham Jr., Cleveland Browns expected to part ways today

It is expected that the Cleveland Browns will release wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. on Friday. The news was first reported by PFT.

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.

Beckham carries a $14.5 million base salary in 2021, potentially more including bonuses. With the Browns having played eight games, Beckham is still owed roughly $7.68 million in base salary this season. They will pay him for this week.

The reported 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.

Possible landing spots for Beckham

It is unclear where Beckham might land in the near future, but the more promising option seems to have faded.

Beckham, a New Orleans native, was reportedly in talks with the New Orleans Saints. Those talks fell through.

“I’m told there were discussions re: Odell going to the Saints — but both sides couldn’t agree on a workable deal, given how much OBJ is owed the rest of the year,” tweeted Kimberley Martin, an NFL reporter for ESPN.

The Las Vegas Raiders, reeling from the departure of their head coach and first-round draft pick Henry Ruggs, also showed interest in the veteran wide receiver, according to Jordan Schultz.

ESPN’s Jeff Darlington noted Beckham has had interest in playing with quarterback Tom Brady, so the Tampa Bay Buccaneers could be a potential landing spot as well.

On3’s Nikki Chavanelle contributed to this report.