Louis Riddick claims that, if Andrew Berry were to become GM, he would release Odell Bettham Jr. and allow the Browns to move on. (1:26).
BEREA, Ohio -- Odell Jr. was exempted from practice for the second consecutive day, according to a source. The wide receiver's representative and the Cleveland Browns are continuing to work towards a resolution for his future.
Beckham was not allowed to attend Wednesday's practice after his father posted an Instagram video highlighting instances when Baker Mayfield didn't throw the ball or missed Beckham when he was open.
Beckham seems to have played his last game for the Browns. Multiple sources claim that Browns coach Kevin Stefanski spoke to the team prior to Wednesday's practice, and informed them that Beckham would not be playing for the Browns as they prepare for Sunday's game against Cincinnati Bengals.
Mayfield and Stefanski both admitted Wednesday that Beckham had not contacted them since his father's Instagram posts became viral.
John Johnson III, Browns safety, said Thursday that Beckham would be back "if it's possible" and that the "majority of his teammates agree with that sentiment.
Johnson stated that Johnson would be a great addition to the locker room if he could stay in the building.
Odell Beckham Sr. also responded to the other comments with three green checkmarks in the comments section to a post that claimed Mayfield was "either hateful of Odell or just doesn't want him shining." Beckham Sr. also replied with "#bigfacts", to a post calling Mayfield "mediocre."
Beckham turns 29 this Friday. He is still under contract for two additional seasons, but has no guaranteed income. Since Tuesday was the NFL's trade deadline, Cleveland can't trade Beckham before the start of the 2022 season. A $1 million roster bonus is due to the three-time Pro Bowler on the first day each of those seasons.
If they traded or released him in the offseason, the Browns would be able to save $15 million on their salary cap.
Wednesday's statement by Mayfield was a surprise. He said he was "pretty shocked" by the video, the intentions, and the sentiments behind it. However, he left the door open to reconciliation and stated that "we'll work though it and do whatever it takes" should Beckham return to the Browns.
Beckham caught one pass for 6 yards during Sunday's 15-10 loss against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Beckham was again targeted by Mayfield late in the game. However, the wide receiver reached for the ball with one arm and did not make the catch.
The Browns' passing game has been struggling in recent weeks. They are now at 4-4 and last in the AFC North standings. Mayfield is 27th in QBR (42.2), and only six touchdown passes. Beckham is ranked 151st in QBR (42.2) and 139th for receptions per route run.
Beckham and Mayfield both have suffered shoulder injuries this season. Since Beckham was traded to the Browns in the 2019 offseason, the players have had a difficult time forming a connection. According to ESPN Stats & Information, they are currently ranked 57th among 62 quarterback-receiver teams with a minimum number of 125 targets.
Beckham and Mayfield rank 59th and 60th respectively in completion percentage (55%), and off-target percentage (27%). Beckham has been overthrown by Mayfield on 27% percent of his passes. This is the third-highest rate of completion since 2019, which is also the highest of any receiver or quarterback.
