Tua Tagovailoa speaks out about Odell Beckham Jr.'s prolonged absence

Wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. has yet to suit up for the Miami Dolphins, making quarterback Tua Tagovailoa a little antsy.

Per Pro Football Network's Adam Beasley , Beckham hasn't practiced or played with the Dolphins since signing a one-year, $3M deal in May and is still on the PUP list. In a Tuesday news conference, Tagovailoa noted he's worked with Beckham some this offseason but wants more reps with the wideout to see how he fits in the offense.

"I think it's more confidence for him once he’s able to start running and catching balls, and seeing it in that sense with guys across from him," Tagovailoa said . "Then also, he has to know where to line up, and then what that play is, if he has a motion or if he doesn’t have a motion. So that’s where I think we'll be one of the tougher parts. And it's not just for him. It's for everyone and anyone trying to get to know the playbook in this offense. ...

"I’ve got to see him catching and running routes with our guys first and getting into the mix first before I can say anything. What I can tell you, though, is the guys out there, they’ve been working their a-s off in this heat, and they’ve been studying, and like I said, it’s not an easy offense to learn, so I just want to commend the guys that are out there."

Tagovailoa's comments should spark some concerns, especially with multiple Dolphins pass-catchers battling injuries. WR Jaylen Waddle hasn't been practicing due to a minor, unspecified injury. Meanwhile, rookie WR Tahj Washington is on the PUP list.

Former Pro Bowler Beckham is no longer considered elite but could still provide needed depth. In 14 games with the Baltimore Ravens last season, the 31-year-old had 35 receptions for 565 yards and three touchdown catches.

Whether Beckham returns soon or not, the Dolphins offense shouldn't backslide in 2024. In 2023, Miami finished second in the league in points scored (29.2) , and star WR Tyreek Hill led the NFL in receiving yards (1,799 in 16 games).