Odell Beckham Jr. Likely to Make Debut Against Atlanta Falcons

The long awaited debut of Odell Beckham Jr. could very well come on Sunday when the New York Giants host the Atlanta Falcons.

ESPN.com reported Beckham is probable to play in his first NFL game on Sunday. “I feel good,” Beckham said to ESPN.com. “Just looking forward to that opportunity, and getting a chance to finally run on that field.”

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The Giants drafted Beckham with their 12th overall pick, but the rookie receiver has been sidelined since the start of training camp with a hamstring injury. While the Giants’ initially offense looked like it could really use the presence of Beckham, the unit has looked phenomenal during the last two weeks. Eli Manning has looked sharp, and it’s not overly outlandish to say the Giants are on their best two game stretch since 2011. The New York offense came together against the Houston Texans, before dismantling Washington on Thursday Night Football. 

Although Manning is thriving, Eli is still very pleased to finally have his incredibly talented rookie at his disposal. “I hope that he can be a big weapon for us,” Manning told ESPN.com. “He can be a deep threat, can win some underneath stuff.” Wide receiver Victor Cruz also chimed in by saying Beckham has, “a ton of ability.”

Beckham, who was described by Mike Mayock as being the best route runner from May’s draft, is explosive and the type of player that can add another element to the Giants’ offense. It was speculated that Beckham could vie for the third receiver spot before he got injured. However, with Preston Parker filling in for the injured Jerrel Jernigan, it’s not impossible to see Beckham claim the majority of those snaps in a few weeks.

Despite missing every preseason and regular season game, don’t be shocked to see Beckham used rather frequently. “He’s been in every meeting. I would expect him to know everything,” Head coach Tom Coughlin said to ESPN.com. Although Beckham might see playing time due to his knowledge of the playbook, he still has yet to play in an NFL game. It will be great for the Giants if Beckham can play on Sunday, but remember, he’s still a rookie and has little chemistry with Manning.

While Beckham could be limited, it will be good to see him finally play on the field in an actual NFL game.