In hindsight, the New York Giants desperately needed their top wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. during their Week 1 loss to the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday night. Unfortunately, the explosive pass catcher was a no-go because of an ankle injury sustained during the preseason against the Cleveland Browns.
It looks like there could be some good news for Big Blue this week ahead of Monday night’s game against the Detroit Lions.
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the Giants have “much more optimism” that Beckham will suit up in Week 2.
On Thursday afternoon, Beckham practiced with the Giants for the first time in a month, further building said optimism.
Rapoport also added that Beckham tried to push his way into the starting lineup against the Cowboys, but it was decided he couldn’t play after a light workout session before the game at AT&T Stadium.
For Beckham’s sake, it might be best that he does suit up to play after what happened last week.
He was spotted in a dance battle with Oklahoma City Thunder star point guard Russell Westbrook, sprained ankle and all, last Thursday in the Meatpacking District. Granted, Beckham isn’t one to shy away from dancing regardless of the health of his ankles.
The Giants offense needs all the help it can get after its performance in Dallas.
With quarterback Eli Manning having virtually no time in the pocket due to a sieve-like offensive line, New York’s offense mustered just 233 yards of total offense, 198 through the air.
Beckham’s versatility as a slot receiver or outside threat would at least keep the Lions defense a little more honest. But most importantly, it gives Manning a reliable set of hands to throw toward while under pressure.
