INDIANAPOLIS - For most draft prospects, the 40-yard dash is the showcase event at the NFL Scouting Combine. Several of the faster wide receivers and running back prospects who came through the Lucas Oil Stadium talked about breaking Chris Johnson's 2008 record of 4.24 seconds.
Odell Beckham Jr. challenging his mom to 40-yard dash
Most players want to compete against other draft prospects. The former LSU receiver is looking to run a faster time than his mother.
Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
Former LSU wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. seems content in simply beating his mom in the 40.
For many players that may seem strange. It’s not for Beckham, whose mom is former LSU track All-American and current Nicholls State track & field coach Heather Van Norman.
Beckham said when his mom watches his games, she’s not critiquing his pass-catching skills. Instead, she’ll tell her son what he needs to improve with his footwork.
“She’s been a track coach for a while. I remember her texting me after games. I had decent games, and she’s texting me – ‘Oh, your form looks great,’” Beckham said. “It’s funny to hear coming from her. She’s a track coach. It’s not like, ‘That’s a nice catch.’ She’s talking about running form.”
After the combine, Beckham plans on challenge his mom to a 40-yard dash contest. But what could she run?
“Probably a 4.2. She’s pretty fast,” Beckham said.
If she wins, Beckham said he’d pay for her to get her nails done. He wasn’t sure what he’d want if he wins.
Any other type of bets for Beckham? Last year LSU teammates Barkevious Mingo and Sam Montgomery bet who would get drafted first. Beckham said he wasn't betting fellow Tigers wide receiver Jarvis Landry on where they'll be picked.
“Jarvis is like a brother to me, so we just wish the best for each other,” Beckham said. “Honestly, whoever gets picked first you’ll be sitting there clapping, and I just hope he does the best he can.”
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