Todd Monken 'Likes' Odell Beckham, Ravens in Pursuit?
The biggest need for the Baltimore Ravens this offseason is at wide receiver. The struggles in the passing game are a big reason why Baltimore parted ways with former offensive coordinator Greg Roman in favor of the newly hired Todd Monken.
During the latter's introductory press conference on Tuesday, Monken was asked about a potential addition to the Ravens' passing attack, Odell Beckham Jr.
"I really like Odell [Beckham Jr.], Monken told reporters. "Odell is super athletic, twitchy. [He] really likes football. I really did [like him]. It didn't work out the year I was there [with him in Cleveland], but ultimately … He's like every skill player; he's no different – I don't know why everybody gets pissed off – like, he wants the ball."
Monken and Beckham's paths crossed with the Cleveland Browns when Todd served as the coordinator under then-head coach Freddie Kitchens. Monken's tenure in Cleveland lasted only a year before he and the rest of the staff were let go.
Their one year together saw Beckham rack up 1,035 yards and four touchdowns on 74 receptions. But as Monken would point out, there was a desire for more touches.
"I don't know where I've been where a great player didn't want the ball. I don't know where a basketball player didn't want shots or a baseball player didn't want to get at-bats. That's what they want; they want opportunities to showcase their ability," Monken adds.
"I think it's awesome. I think he's tremendously skilled, and I like his personality. He likes to compete."
The former LSU Tiger is still a free agent after taking the whole 2022 season recovering from the ACL tear he suffered in Super Bowl LVI.
Even after visiting with multiple teams towards the end of last season, Beckham remained unsigned. The potential reason is that red flags were raised by the Dallas Cowboys medical staff about his progress in rehab.
Now, two years removed from the injury, it seems likely that Beckham will find a home this offseason, and the Ravens could be a good fit.
When healthy, Beckham was among the league's top receivers, something quarterback Lamar Jackson has never enjoyed playing with. Signing the now 30-year-old wide-out could be a good sign of intentions by the Ravens' front office to Jackson as the prolonged contract negotiations continue.
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