The story behind Odell Beckham Jr.’s surprising Minnesota Vikings jersey number

Odell Beckham Jr. has revealed why he chose No. 9 after joining the Minnesota Vikings, joking that Justin Jefferson is the reason behind his new jersey number.

Beckham joined Minnesota's practice squad on Wednesday after his short return to the New York Giants ended with his release on September 29.

The Vikings moved to 4-0 with a 15-10 win over the Miami Dolphins on Sunday, although Jefferson missed the game with an ankle sprain. Beckham now gives Minnesota another experienced option as they deal with uncertainty at wide receiver.

Odell Beckham Jr. has a long history with Justin Jefferson

No. 9 was previously worn by J.J. McCarthy before the quarterback was traded to the Giants on September 28. Beckham was therefore able to take the number, but his explanation for choosing it had much more to do with Jefferson.

"The reason I picked 9 is because Justin got half his game from me," Beckham told reporters.

There is genuine history behind the joke. Both receivers attended LSU, while Jefferson's older brother Jordan was Beckham's quarterback for one season during his time with the Tigers.

Jefferson also broke Beckham's record for receiving yards through a player's first two NFL seasons, finishing with 2,851 yards compared with Beckham's 2,755.

Beckham has made it clear that he has plenty of respect for his fellow receiver, too.

"It's amazing what he's done. It'll be amazing to get to see him up close and personal," Beckham said. "And also get to see what he's going to do for the rest of his career, god willing. He's got a chance to be the best to ever do it. It's pretty special to be able to be here with him."

He added: "Just being able to see him since coming in those days at LSU, his big brother was my quarterback, so it's a lot of history there. He's been like family to me for a long time."

Beckham's immediate role remains unclear, with Minnesota ranking last in the NFL in passing and the veteran currently on the practice squad.

Jefferson returned to limited practice on Wednesday, giving the Vikings some hope ahead of Sunday's trip to New Orleans. Beckham could now make his Minnesota debut alongside a player he has known for years, adding another chapter to their LSU connection.