New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard probably concluded his last game at MetLife Stadium on Sunday. As his extended four-year, $41 million contract ends this season, there are no reported plans for him to return to the team as a player. And his friend, Odell Beckham Jr., has already started missing him.

Shepard, drafted by the Giants in 2016, is the team’s longest-tenured player. As speculation about his retirement is on among football enthusiasts, the 30-year-old WR expressed gratitude for his eight-year-old career, leaving his plans open-ended. However, Beckham Jr. endorsed his glorious period with the Giants.

Sterling Shepard thanks the Giants

The wide receiver, who missed a few opening games due to injuries this season, completed his eight years with the Giants. And hence, he shared a sort of farewell video on his Instagram. The video post started with questions from the media to him like, “Do you think about this possibly being your final game with the Giants?” and “Who is Sterling Shepard?” Then, it started with his journey from the 2016 draft pick to some of his career highlights, which included multiple touchdowns, some incredible one-hand catches, and celebrations with his people. In the video, Shepard could be heard saying that being in the huddles of his team meant a lot to him, that he had enjoyed every minute of the team, and that he was thankful to the organization.

Shepard also captioned the video: “Forever grateful to the New York Giants organization, past and present teammates, and the incredible fan base for their unwavering love and support over the past 8 years.” He said, “New Jersey, my second home, will forever hold a special place in my heart. Thank you for embracing me with open arms and making me feel like family. Once a Giant, always a Giant!”

This heartwarming video probably made his friend Odell Beckham Jr. emotional, and he commented, “My bloooood! U did more for me than u can ever imagine I love u! Proud of u brudda,” referencing the time they spent together as close and selfless friends from 2014 to 2018. Beckham might be recalling his days when Shepards supported him and stayed with him even when OBJ was set to go to another team.

An ‘understanding’ friendship between the two!

What more friends can expect from each other besides support and understanding? At least for Odell Beckham Jr. and Sterling Shepard’s case, they are together united. Although OBJ wasn’t in Shepard’s team this season, they have a beautiful unbreakable bond, which was also evidenced during OBJ’s trading phase.

In 2022, Shepard stated himself hopeful about reuniting with then-free agent OBJ, who was considering various teams, including the Cowboys and the Bills. Shepard told the media at that time that OBJ was eager to switch teams. However, he emphasized that Beckham’s decision will be based on what’s best for him, and his family, balancing personal connections with the business aspects of the NFL.

Read more: Odell Beckham Jr. Set to Relax With Ravens Teammates Rehashing Yacht Plan From Giants Days

Shepard understood OBJ and supported him in his decision despite knowing that they wouldn’t be playing together in the future. And now, as Shepard might retire, he and OBJ are still the same friends as they were earlier.

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