Odell Beckham Jr. to Miss Start of 2024 Season with Dolphins
As the 2024 NFL season approaches, the Miami Dolphins are gearing up for their upcoming challenges without one of their eagerly anticipated acquisitions, Odell Beckham Jr. The veteran wide receiver is set to miss the start of the season, as confirmed by recent developments from the team’s camp.
Beckham will begin the season on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list, sidelining him for at least the first four games. This means he will not participate in the Dolphins’ matchups against the Jaguars, Bills, Seahawks, and Titans. The earliest possible return for Beckham would be on October 6, in a Week 5 contest against the New England Patriots. However, with a bye scheduled for Week 6, speculation is mounting that the Dolphins might opt to delay his return until their Week 7 home game against the Colts.
The situation surrounding Beckham's absence has been a topic of much intrigue and some concern. Details about his current condition remain scarce, though it has been revealed that he underwent an unspecified "offseason procedure." The nature of this procedure has left fans and analysts alike wondering when exactly the receiver will return to full form.
A Challenging Start for Beckham
Adding to the uncertainty, Beckham has not been able to practice with the Dolphins at all. Head Coach Mike McDaniel acknowledged this during an August 23 media session, stating, "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 also mentioned that additional information about Beckham's situation is forthcoming: "TBD. TBD, more information to acquire."
In the absence of Beckham, the Dolphins will have to rely heavily on their existing roster. Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa has expressed a bit of frustration but remains hopeful about Beckham’s future impact. "Off the field, I've been able to hang out with him a good amount of times,” Tagovailoa said. “Cool dude, 100%. 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."
A History of Injuries
Beckham is no stranger to injury-related setbacks. Last season, while with the Baltimore Ravens, he missed two early games due to an ankle injury but returned in time for the Ravens' playoff games. His resilience and competitive drive have never been in question, but his recent health issues have raised concerns over his long-term durability.
The Dolphins signed Beckham in May 2024, a move that was seen as bolstering an already promising roster. With a strong finish to the previous season, expectations were high for the team to build on that momentum. Beckham’s addition was expected to provide a significant boost to the Dolphins' offensive capabilities.
The Road Ahead
As the season kickoff nears, the Dolphins are left to navigate the initial rough waters without one of their star players. Mike McDaniel’s coaching strategies and Tua Tagovailoa’s leadership will be critical during this period. The team has shown promise, but the absence of a dynamic playmaker like Beckham certainly alters their early-season game plans.
The Dolphins' management and medical staff will undoubtedly prioritize Beckham’s health and long-term contributions over immediate returns. Whether Beckham makes his debut against the Patriots in Week 5, or the Colts in Week 7, remains to be seen. What is clear, however, is that his presence on the team, even in a non-playing capacity, is already making an impact.
For now, the Dolphins and their fans will have to exercise patience as they await the return of their star wide receiver. The hope is that when Beckham does step onto the field, he will be ready to deliver the performances that have made him one of the most electrifying players in the NFL.