May 16, 2024
Odell Beckham Jr., the newly acquired wide receiver for the Miami Dolphins, initially had reservations about joining the AFC team due to quarterback Tua Tagovailoa’s left-handedness. Tagovailoa, who has proven himself as one of the NFL’s leading quarterbacks, especially after a healthy season last year, caused some concern for Beckham.
This marks Beckham’s fourth team in as many years, but his decision to move to Miami was influenced by his desire to work under Coach Mike McDaniel. Despite his initial hesitation regarding Tagovailoa’s unique throwing hand, Beckham became more receptive to the idea after reviewing game footage and consulting with peers, including continual practice since he was 15 with Jarvis Landry and advice from one of his left-handed trainers.
They reassured him about Tagovailoa’s unconventional style, praising his accuracy and the quality of his throws, which helped Beckham overcome his doubts. “Initially, the fact that Tua is a lefty made me pause,” Beckham shared with the press, according to ProFootballTalk.
“But after reflecting on my own experiences and what I’ve heard about his skills, it seems his left-hand throw doesn’t detract from his abilities on the field.”
“He achieved success at Alabama and continued that trend with the Dolphins,” he stated. “As I reflected deeply, not just on the destination but on what was best for my career looking forward, I saw a great deal of potential here for myself.”
In other related news, Dolphins owner Stephen Ross turned down an incredibly high offer to sell the franchise, which would have broken previous sale records.
Odell Beckham Jr. Adds New Layer to Dolphins’ Offense
Under Tagovailoa’s leadership, the team saw impressive stats last season with him topping the charts with 4,624 passing yards, along with 29 touchdowns and 14 interceptions. The addition of WR is a significant boost for Tagovailoa, who now has yet another reliable option for passing.
Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle are already seen as the top receiving duo in the league.
Incorporating Odell Beckham Jr. into this stellar lineup means the Dolphins could very well field the best offensive lineup in 2024. Last season, playing for the Baltimore Ravens, Beckham Jr. had 35 catches from 64 targets, amassing 565 yards and securing three touchdowns.
Reports also surfaced that two AFC powerhouses were in the running for Odell Beckham Jr. before he ultimately signed with the Dolphins.