Report: Beckham, Giants optimistic about extension before Week 1
The rumored record-breaking contract between the New York Giants and wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. appears to be progressing, as the two sides are reasonably optimistic a deal could be done by Week 1 of the 2018 season, sources told ESPN's Jordan Raanan.
Pittsburgh Steelers star receiver Antonio Brown currently tops the NFL at the position, earning an average annual value of $17 million. Beckham's deal is expected to surpass Brown's.
The 25-year-old wideout has been rumored to be seeking an extension this offseason as he enters the final year of his rookie contract. Earlier this month, he said he was hopeful one would "work itself out."
The Giants are reportedly willing to make Beckham the league's highest-paid receiver, but wanted to see their star pass-catcher buy into new head coach Pat Shurmur's regime and ensure he was fully healthy before working on a new deal, Raanan added.
Beckham was limited to just four contests last year due to a fractured ankle but posted at least 1,300 yards and 10 touchdowns in all three of his prior campaigns.
New York opens the 2018 season Sept. 9 at home against the Jacksonville Jaguars.