Former Pro Bowl WR Odell Beckham Jr. clears waivers, hits free agency

The New Orleans Saints, Detroit Lions and New York Giants all publicly passed on the idea of claiming big-name wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. off waivers after he and the Cleveland Browns officially parted ways on Monday. 

Those clubs weren't alone. 

As Grant Gordon wrote for the NFL's website, Beckham cleared waivers and, thus, is officially a free agent as of 4 p.m. ET Tuesday. He can sign with any team he wants moving forward. 

Multiple individuals confirmed Beckham would've had $7.25 million of salary attached to his services through the remainder of the 2021 season had a team claimed him before Tuesday afternoon. It was assumed that was too high a price for any club to pay at this point of the year, and NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reports the Browns now owe OBJ $4.25 million per the terms of a previously agreed settlement. 

Before Tuesday's development, Beckham was linked with the Saints, Seattle Seahawks, and San Francisco 49ers. However, insider Jordan Schultz reported Tuesday before Beckham became a free agent that he has prioritized the Green Bay Packers "as his No. 1 destination." 

Green Bay's thoughts on potentially signing Beckham are unclear. 

Meanwhile, Josina Anderson of CBS Sports added: