New York Giants Lawrence Taylor
(Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images)

Legendary New York Giants linebacker Lawrence Taylor believes star wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. can be a true leader for Big Blue.

Despite the extraordinary things Giants wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. has done on the field, there aren’t many fans of his attitude. Getting himself into situations such as the infamous boat picture, along with the alleged white powder video in March, it’s safe to say that OBJ has experienced a roller coaster career off the field.

However, this offseason has shown a newfound maturity for the star receiver. He attended three of the OTA practices for the Giants in May, after not attending any last offseason. He also announced he would not be holding out of training camp, despite being eager for a new, expensive contract. Beckham expects to make $8.45 million this upcoming season, however, he hopes to be the highest-paid player in the NFL eventually.

One of the individuals that recognizes this newfound maturity is none other than Giants Hall of Fame linebacker, Lawrence Taylor. In an interview with Ryan Dunleavy of NJ Advance Media at a fundraising event for the O.J. Anderson Scholarship Foundation, LT showed his confidence in Beckham.

“I don’t think he’s a team leader yet,” Taylor said. “But he can be a team leader with the ability he has and all the different things he can do with the football. I think this year he will not only be a good player, he’ll be a team leader.”

Taylor also gave his insight and opinion on the entire contract situation between OBJ and Big Blue.

“It will be unfortunate if they can’t get something done,” he mentioned. “I think they will get something done because he is not a player you can play without.”

Despite the talent Beckham brings onto the field, many believe the Giants should not even bother with a new contract. Numerous individuals look at him as more of a problem than a solution. However, with a change in his image and an increase in maturity level, Beckham can prove to the organization that he’s ready for a new contract, along with a bright future in New York.

Ryan Honey is a staff writer and host of the Wide Right Podcast.