Report: Giants willing to make OBJ highest-paid WR, despite Watkins rumor

Contrary to an earlier report, the New York Giants are willing to make Odell Beckham Jr. the highest-paid receiver in the NFL, sources told NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.

A report from ESPN's Josina Anderson on Monday morning claimed the Giants were valuing Beckham below an annual average salary of $16 million, which is what the Kansas City Chiefs gave Sammy Watkins in free agency.

Giants brass met with Beckham's agent, Zeke Sandhu, at training camp last week, but the latter reportedly left town with no deal in place. The two sides were said to have been negotiating in good faith.

Beckham said Saturday he's "optimistic" that contract talks with Big Blue are trending in the right direction. However, he's previously indicated he wants to be the highest-paid receiver - if not player - in the NFL.

The 25-year-old was limited to just four contests last year because of a fractured ankle, but posted at least 1,300 yards and 10 touchdowns in all three of his prior campaigns. Beckham is entering the final year of his rookie contract.