Beckham Jr. named ‘Madden 16’ cover athlete

New York Giants rookie receiver Odell Beckham Jr. (Julio Cortez/AP)

New York Giants rookie sensation Odell Beckham Jr. has been named the cover athlete for Madden NFL 16.

The 22-year-old wide receiver edged out Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski to become the youngest player and the first Giant to grace the cover of the popular video game franchise.

Beckham earned AP Rookie of the Year honours in 2014 after finishing with 1,305 yards and 12 touchdowns in only 12 games. He also became a regular fixture on highlight reels for making ridiculously athletic catches, none more memorable than the one-handed TD grab he made against the Cowboys in Week 7.

For those worried about the Madden curse, rest easy. The last cover athlete to flame out was Peyton Hillis in 2011.

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