THE TRUTH ABOUT THE RUMORS: Did Odell Beckham Jr. Really Hint at Joining the New Orleans Saints?
For the past week, NFL fans have been buzzing about Odell Beckham Jr. — not because of a game-winning catch, but because of the whirlwind of rumors swirling around his future. First, a fake retirement report went viral, claiming the superstar wide receiver was hanging up his cleats for good. Then, another headline began making the rounds suggesting that Beckham had expressed interest in joining the New Orleans Saints after “unretiring.”
It’s the kind of off-season chaos NFL fans know well: one tweet sparks another, speculation snowballs, and before long, fans are already Photoshopping jerseys and dreaming up depth charts. But what’s actually true about Beckham’s situation? And more importantly — is there any real chance that the Louisiana native could end up in black and gold?
The Retirement Rumor — and Beckham’s Response
The storm began with a fake account posting that Odell Beckham Jr. was retiring. The post spread quickly, fooling casual fans and even getting picked up by smaller blogs before being debunked. Beckham wasted no time shutting it down, posting on social media that he is “not done yet” and promising that when retirement does come, it will be announced in his own words.
That denial alone tells us two things:
Beckham still believes he has something left to give.
He’s actively preparing for a return in 2025.
NFL insiders backed up his statement. Tom Pelissero reported that Beckham has drawn interest from “several teams” and intends to play this season. At 32 years old, he’s no longer in his prime, but Beckham has shown flashes of his playmaking ability — most recently with the Ravens — and remains a respected veteran presence.
The Saints Speculation: Fact or Fiction?
So where do the New Orleans Saints come into the picture? According to the viral blog post that sparked this round of chatter, Beckham allegedly expressed interest in joining the Saints following his denial of retirement. But here’s the key detail: there is no credible reporting to confirm that claim.
Beckham has not gone on record mentioning the Saints this offseason. No insider reports, no press statements, no verified quotes.
What is true is that Beckham once admitted he was “very close” to signing with the Saints back in 2021 before choosing the Rams — a move that ended with him hoisting a Super Bowl trophy. That history makes the Saints a natural connection in the rumor mill, especially considering Beckham’s Louisiana roots and the team’s current need for offensive firepower alongside Chris Olave. But history is not the same as present interest.
Could Beckham Fit in New Orleans?
Even though the reports are unverified, the idea of Beckham in New Orleans is not completely far-fetched. The Saints are in a transitional phase under Dennis Allen and new offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak. Derek Carr remains the starter, but the offense has lacked consistent explosiveness since Drew Brees retired.
Adding Beckham — even as a rotational receiver — could provide a spark. His veteran savvy, playoff experience, and ability to make contested catches would take pressure off Olave and give the Saints another weapon in key moments.
The big question is cost. Beckham isn’t going to command massive dollars at this stage, but he’ll still want a meaningful role. For a team like the Saints, who are constantly juggling salary cap gymnastics, every contract counts.
The Bigger Picture: What’s Next for OBJ?
So, where does Beckham actually land? The truth is wide open. Contenders with WR depth issues — think the Chiefs, Bills, or Cowboys — could be in play. Rebuilding teams might stay away, but for a roster looking to make a playoff push, Beckham offers low-risk upside.
The Saints are in the mix in fans’ imaginations more than in reality right now, but it wouldn’t be shocking if the front office at least kicks the tires. If the price is right, the Louisiana storyline is too perfect for the NFL to ignore.
Bottom Line
Here’s what we know for sure:
Odell Beckham Jr. is not retiring. He shut that rumor down himself.
He wants to play in 2025. Multiple insiders confirm he’s staying in shape and drawing interest.
The Saints angle is speculative. While Beckham nearly joined them in 2021 and it would make for an exciting story, no credible reports confirm that he’s considering New Orleans this time around.
So, Saints fans, don’t start ordering those OBJ jerseys just yet. But don’t count it out either — stranger things have happened in the NFL, and Beckham’s story has always been full of twists.
