Odell Beckham Jr. Condemns Fake Retirement Rumors, Vows to Continue Career
NFL wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. has strongly denied rumors circulating online that he is retiring, calling the news ‘Shxt ain’t over yet.’ A fabricated social media account impersonating an ESPN NFL insider recently posted a fake report stating Beckham was retiring after 11 years in the league. The post, which featured a photo of Beckham with his child outside MetLife Stadium — the site of his NFL career debut — was swiftly debunked by the player himself.
Beckham, who was originally drafted by the New York Giants in 2014, expressed his frustration with the misinformation on social media, joking about the absurdity of the claim. ‘LOL WTF… when was that announced and by who? That’s funny,’ he wrote, adding that he wanted fans to be more cautious about what they read online. He also warned fans to stop messaging him with retirement wishes, suggesting that such messages could lead to his blocking them. ‘That will get no response. I promise you the day I’m done I will let you know. Again, if you text me happy retirement, I’m just gonna have to block you.’
Beckham’s recent career path has been marked by frequent changes in teams. After a stellar start with the Giants, where he amassed 390 catches for 5,476 yards and 44 touchdowns, he was traded to the Browns in 2019. Following a rocky season with the Browns, he joined the Rams in 2020, helping them win a Super Bowl title in 2021. However, an injury during that season forced him to sit out the 2022 season. Beckham then moved to the Ravens and Dolphins, continuing to play in the league.
As a free agent entering the 2025 season, Beckham remains a key player in the NFL, with his future still uncertain. His decision to continue playing is a testament to his desire to remain in the spotlight, despite the various challenges and changes in his career. The incident with the fake retirement report highlights the growing problem of misinformation in sports and the importance of verifying such claims before they spread.
With a strong online presence and a history of high-performance football, Beckham’s career is far from over. His response to the fake rumor not only shows his personality but also his determination to maintain control over his public image and future. As the NFL continues to evolve, players like Beckham must navigate the complexities of social media and public perception, ensuring that their careers are not overshadowed by misinformation or premature announcements.