Key Takeaways
- Odell Beckham Jr. defends his choice to be paid in Bitcoin.
- Beckham's decision comes as Bitcoin reaches record highs.
- Russell Okung turned his Bitcoin salary into a $20 million asset.
Odell Beckham Jr., now with the Miami Dolphins, responded confidently to past criticism over his choice to receive his 2021 salary from the Los Angeles Rams in Bitcoin.
With Bitcoin prices reaching new records, Beckham joined other athletes, including former NFL player Russell Okung, in celebrating the recent highs of the digital currency.
Initial contract
Beckham’s initial contract with the Rams involved a one-year deal worth $1.25 million, with a $750,000 base and up to $3 million in performance bonuses tied to playoff achievements.
At the time, he opted to receive this salary in Bitcoin, a choice that drew mixed reactions, especially when Bitcoin’s value dropped significantly after his signing.
Now, with Bitcoin surging again, Beckham addressed critics who questioned the wisdom of his move.
Russell Okung
Earlier, Okung had publicly lauded his decision to receive part of his 2020 salary in Bitcoin, revealing he turned a $6.5 million payment into $20 million with the currency’s rise.
Okung was the first major U.S. sports player to accept payment in Bitcoin, setting a trend that others, including Saquon Barkley, Aaron Jones, and Trevor Lawrence, would follow.
