Did Kordell Beckham Play Football? Full Career Breakdown

By Sarah Miller · September 26, 2043

Yes, Kordell Beckham did play football. He was a wide receiver who played college football at Southern University and pursued a professional career in indoor and arena football leagues, including the National Arena League (NAL) and The Spring League.

Who Is Kordell Beckham?

Kordell Beckham is a professional American football player who has primarily played as a wide receiver. While not related to New York Giants star Odell Beckham Jr., the similarity in their names often leads to public confusion. Kordell gained recognition for his athleticism and performance at the collegiate level and later transitioned into professional indoor and developmental football leagues.

Background and Early Career

Born on July 15, 1996, in New Orleans, Louisiana.
Played high school football at John Ehret High School, where he showcased standout receiving skills.
Continued his football journey at Southern University, a Historically Black College and University (HBCU) in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
Excelled in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC), drawing attention for his speed and route-running ability.

College Football Performance

During his tenure at Southern University from 2015 to 2019, Kordell Beckham became one of the top receivers in the SWAC. His consistent production made him a key target for the Jaguars' offense.

Season	Games Played	Receptions	Receiving Yards	Yards Per Game	Touchdowns
2016	10	38	547	54.7	4
2017	11	47	729	66.3	5
2018	10	43	632	63.2	3
2019	10	36	501	50.1	4

Table data source:Southern University Athletics, SWAC Official Statistics Archive

The table above highlights Kordell Beckham's season-by-season receiving statistics during his peak college years. He consistently averaged over 50 receiving yards per game, with a career-high 729 yards in 2017. His reliability as a possession receiver and ability to gain yards after catch made him a valuable asset in the SWAC.

Professional Football Career

After going undrafted in the NFL Draft, Kordell Beckham continued pursuing professional football through alternative leagues.

Leagues and Teams

National Arena League (NAL): Played for the Massachusetts Pirates during the 2021 season.
The Spring League (TSL): Participated in 2020 and 2021 as part of the skill position group, gaining exposure to scouts and coaching staffs.
Indoor Football: Competed in high-tempo, arena-style environments that emphasize passing and receiver agility.

These developmental leagues serve as platforms for athletes to showcase talent, refine skills, and potentially earn opportunities with larger organizations, including the NFL or CFL.

Common Confusion: Kordell Beckham vs. Odell Beckham Jr.

A frequent misconception is that Kordell Beckham is related to or the same person as Odell Beckham Jr., the Pro Bowl wide receiver known for his time with the New York Giants, Los Angeles Rams, and Baltimore Ravens.

No familial relationship exists between the two players.
Both attended high schools in Louisiana but played at different institutions.
Odell played at LSU, while Kordell played at Southern University.
Their similar last names and positions contribute to ongoing mix-ups online.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kordell Beckham

Did Kordell Beckham ever play in the NFL?

No, Kordell Beckham has not appeared in a regular-season NFL game. He participated in developmental leagues like The Spring League and the National Arena League to remain active and visible to professional scouts.

Where did Kordell Beckham play college football?

Kordell Beckham played college football at Southern University, an HBCU in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, competing in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) from 2015 to 2019.

Is Kordell Beckham related to Odell Beckham Jr.?

No, Kordell Beckham is not related to Odell Beckham Jr. Despite the similar surnames and both being Louisiana-born receivers, they are not family members and attended different colleges.

What teams has Kordell Beckham played for professionally?

Kordell Beckham has played for the Massachusetts Pirates in the National Arena League (NAL) and participated in The Spring League (TSL), a showcase league for NFL prospects.

What position does Kordell Beckham play?

Kordell Beckham plays as a wide receiver, specializing in route running, mid-range separation, and gaining yards after the catch.

Conclusion

Kordell Beckham did indeed play football at a competitive level. From his productive college career at Southern University to stints in professional development leagues like the NAL and TSL, he has demonstrated dedication to the sport. While he hasn’t reached the NFL, his journey reflects the reality of many talented athletes striving to advance in a highly competitive industry. His story also underscores the importance of HBCU programs and alternative football leagues in athlete development.