There will be added competitiveness in the NFC East next year. The landscape shifted when the New York Giants hired John Harbaugh as their next head coach, which no doubt put the Washington Commanders and others in the division on edge a little more than usual entering the offseason.
However, one recent report suggests the Giants are contemplating a move that would confirm they remain stuck in their old ways.
According to Ryan Dunleavy from the New York Post, the Giants have hosted wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. on a visit. Those in power reportedly put the once prolific pass-catcher through his paces, and he even underwent a medical with the club.
Commanders fans crack a smile as Giants contemplate Odell Beckham Jr. reunion
This indicates the interest in ending Beckham's league exile is legitimate. However, Connor Hughes of SNY reported, citing sources, that no deal is imminent and that it would likely come after the draft if both sides can find some middle ground.
Beckham hasn't given up hope of playing again. He made that clear after some highlight-reel catches during the Fanatics Flag Football Classic, which Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels also participated in. This was enough to intrigue the Giants, but whether anything concrete emerges is another matter.
There was no doubt a few chuckles in Washington, Dallas, and Philadelphia when this news broke. Beckham was one of the most prolific, dynamic receivers anywhere in the league at the peak of his powers. Those days are long gone, and the Commanders wouldn't exactly be shaking with fear if he made an emotional return to the place where it all began.
That doesn't mean the NFC East should be dismissing the Giants entirely anymore. Harbaugh's brought a fresh injection of purpose. They have some talented young pieces and a formidable defense, though interior defensive lineman Dexter Lawrence leaves a massive hole to fill. New York also has two picks in the top 10, which could speed up the rebuild.
Just how much Beckham still has left in the tank is debatable. He's dealt with some significant injuries. Catching passes in a flag football tournament is one thing. Doing it with full pads on in an NFL regular-season environment is another matter.
It caused the inevitable stir on social media. But in terms of impact, the Commanders shouldn't be worrying too much about Beckham if the Giants do eventually take the plunge.
He is no real threat, but that's not the case with everybody in the NFC East.
Add us as a preferred source on Google