Why Odell Beckham Jr Got 6-Game Suspension: Full Explanation

Free agent wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr has been suspended for six games by the NFL after failing a drug test. The league informed the 32-year-old that his testosterone levels were above the allowed limit during the 2024 season, when he played nine games for the Miami Dolphins.

Beckham accepted the punishment but insisted he never knowingly used performance-enhancing drugs. The suspension means he cannot play until at least Week 12 of the 2025 NFL season, with games scheduled between November 20 and November 24.

Odell Beckham Jr’s 6-Game Ban Explained

The NFL confirmed that Beckham’s failed test came from a sample collected during his stint with the Miami Dolphins. According to the league’s policy, elevated testosterone counts are considered a violation of the performance-enhancing substances (PES) program. Beckham said on The Pivot Podcast that the test showed abnormally high testosterone levels but denied taking banned products. “I ain’t never cheated anybody but myself,” he said, adding that he intends to keep playing after the ban.

Performance-enhancing drug violations in the NFL usually trigger a six-game suspension for a first-time offense. The penalty cannot be reduced unless the player proves contamination or error in the testing process. Beckham did not appeal and accepted the decision to avoid delaying his return.

The veteran receiver, who was part of the Los Angeles Rams’ Super Bowl-winning team in 2022, has faced multiple injuries in recent years, including an ACL tear in the Super Bowl. His stint with the Dolphins was meant to reignite his career, but now he faces another major setback.

Potential Landing Spots After Suspension

Beckham said he is confident he will resume his NFL career this season once eligible. He mentioned interest in joining contenders such as the Pittsburgh Steelers, Los Angeles Rams, and Kansas City Chiefs. All three franchises have been linked to mid-season receiver reinforcements due to injuries and depth concerns.

At age 32, Beckham still brings veteran experience and explosive playmaking ability when healthy. However, missing the first 11 weeks of the season will impact his ability to learn a new offense and build chemistry with a quarterback. Teams may wait until his suspension nears its end before signing him.

The six-game suspension delays Odell Beckham Jr’s 2025 NFL comeback but doesn’t end his career hopes. The star receiver insists he did not knowingly break rules and plans to play again once reinstated.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Why did Odell Beckham Jr get a 6-game suspension?

He tested positive for elevated testosterone levels, violating the NFL’s performance-enhancing drug policy.

Q2: When can Odell Beckham Jr return to play?

He will be eligible after Week 11, with possible return games between November 20 and November 24, 2025.

Q3: Did Beckham admit to taking banned substances?

No. He said he never knowingly used performance-enhancing drugs but accepted the suspension.

Q4: Which teams could sign Beckham after his suspension?

He mentioned the Pittsburgh Steelers, Los Angeles Rams, and Kansas City Chiefs as possible landing spots.

Q5: How many games did Beckham play with the Dolphins?

He played nine games with the Miami Dolphins in the 2024 NFL season.