Giants owner John Mara: Odell Beckham Jr. 'needs to do more playing and less talking'

The NFL owners began their fall meetings on Tuesday in New York, and New York Giants owner John Mara was a popular figure among the assembled media.

One of the more influential owners in the league, Mara also co-owns a franchise that is struggling — still.

And he had some pointed comments for his team’s biggest star.

‘More playing, less talking’

Asked about the much-discussed interview receiver Odell Beckham Jr. did earlier this month in which he was critical of the Giants’ heart and offense, Mara initially responded, “Which one of his interviews?”

He added that he did not speak with Beckham after the interview aired, saying that “enough people have spoken” to the three-time Pro Bowler about his comments.

But Mara made sure to make one pointed comment: “He needs to do a little more playing and a little less talking.” He also said, “I wish he would create headlines by his play on the field as opposed to what he says and does off the field.”

‘It’s not just him’

The Giants are 1-5 over their first six games for the second straight year. Mara said “it’s pretty disappointing; I’m sick about it.”

But he also defended his team’s longtime quarterback.

“I know [Eli Manning] is the punching bag right now, but a lot of guys need to play better when you’re 1-5. It’s not just him,” Mara said.

However, Mara said he’s confident that the right people are in place, meaning coach Pat Shurmur and general manager Dave Gettleman, to turn things around for the Giants.

Right now, though, he’s “embarrassed” by his team’s record.

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