Fight! Odell Beckham Jr. vs. Marlon Humphrey - New Ravens 'Best Friends'
If politics make strange bedfellows, then competitive sports can make for some … interesting alliances.
When free agent wide receiver Odell Beckham, Jr. announced that he was signing a one-year, $18 million deal with the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday evening, members of Ravens Flock were excited to welcome the dynamic wideout to Charm City.
Like clockwork, the images of Beckham wearing purple and black gave a renewed sense of optimism that quarterback Lamar Jackson may follow suit.
However, Beckham’s problematic past with a key member of Baltimore’s defensive backfield seemingly set the stage for a potentially awkward union.
Rest easy, Ravens fans … all appears to be water under the bridge between Beckham and Ravens’ cornerback Marlon Humphrey.
During a 2019 meeting between the Ravens and Cleveland Browns (for whom Beckham was then playing) the pair got into a physical altercation, with Beckham throwing a punch and Humphrey attempting to retailiate. Beckham also said he lost an earring during the skirmish. Both players were not only penalized during the game, but were also fined by the NFL.
Despite any lingering animosity, Humphrey was among the first to express his enthusiasm for Beckham’s signing with Baltimore, along with offering a perceived olive branch to the 30-year-old — making it clear that the passionate pair of soon-to-be teammates share the same goal.
While the occasional temper may flare during practice, both Beckham and Humphrey understand that being on the same page is essential to justify Baltimore’s hopes for contending in 2023. In fact, Humphrey appeared to be aware of Beckham’s deviation to his craft in the wake of their 2019 dust-up.
"I enjoyed going against a top guy like that," Humphrey said. "... The excitement he brings to the game, he can really do it all. It was a really great matchup."
This season, Humphrey will undoubtedly be happy to work alongside Beckham, after having had enough of working against him.
Now, if only, they can convince Lamar Jackson to do the same … ?
Follow Mike D’Abate on Twitter @mdabateNFL
Follow the Baltimore Ravens Daily Blitz Podcast
Follow Raven Country on Twitter
Ravens Alert! Want the latest in breaking news and insider information on the Baltimore Ravens?
