John Harbaugh says Odell Beckham Jr. looked solid in his Giants preseason debut

Odell Beckham Jr. is attempting an NFL comeback with the New York Giants after not playing for any team last season. He served a six-game PED suspension and was an unsigned free agent. Now, he is competing for a spot on the Giants' roster during the 2026 preseason. The team played its first preseason game against the Minnesota Vikings on Saturday, August 15, 2026, losing 13-10. Beckham Jr. saw limited action but caught two passes on three targets for six yards. Both receptions came from backup quarterback Jameis Winston. Jaxson Dart also played quarterback during the game.

Following the game, Giants head coach John Harbaugh provided an honest assessment of Beckham Jr.'s performance. Harbaugh stated that Beckham made some catches and did some things he could have done better, adding that the receiver would be the first to admit that. Overall, Harbaugh thought Beckham looked solid. The coach also expressed personal admiration for Beckham, noting his fight, determination, and humility. Harbaugh mentioned that Beckham is motivated by his son, which makes the coach proud as a friend. There was at least one play where Beckham was wide open for a potential touchdown, but the pass did not connect for a score.

Beckham Jr. originally spent the first five seasons of his NFL career with the Giants, earning the 2014 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award and three Pro Bowl selections. His current attempt to make the roster comes amid a crowded receiving corps. Locks at the position include Darius Slayton, Calvin Austin III, and JuJu Smith-Schuster. Beckham is competing against Braxton Berrios, Dalen Cambre, and Jalin Hyatt for a depth chart spot. The situation is further complicated by the status of young star receiver Malik Nabers, who is recovering from a torn ACL and meniscus injury suffered last season. Nabers has recently participated in team practice drills and there is hope he will be ready for Week 1 of the regular season, though he is not being rushed into preseason games.

Beckham's previous association with the Giants, his career resume, and his performance in the first preseason game make him a logical candidate for the roster. His brief appearance showed he can still contribute, even if there are areas for improvement. The coaching staff's evaluation will continue throughout the preseason as Beckham fights to secure a place on the team. The outcome remains uncertain, as Harbaugh acknowledged, stating he does not know how it will turn out and that it will be determined by what happens on the field. Beckham's journey is framed as a personal one, driven by his desire to play for his son, adding an emotional layer to his professional comeback attempt.