Odell Beckham Called 'Vital Part' of Giants by OC Mike Shula Amid Trade Rumors

New York Giants offensive coordinator Mike Shula said he's moving forward with the expectation wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. will be part of his scheme this year. 

"As we still work through this with Coach (Pat) Shurmur, (Beckham) is obviously a vital part of our offense," Shula told reporters Wednesday, per SNY's Ralph Vacchiano. "When you have guys that can make plays and put points on the board you want to feature them as much as you can."

Shula added he's trying to ignore speculation that Beckham could be dealt as he gets set to enter the final year on his rookie contract. 

"I kind of learned over the years to try to avoid the swirls and just kind of focus in on the things that I'm responsible for and at the time that I'm responsible for doing that," he said. 

According to The MMQB's Peter King, the Giants are "likely" seeking two first-round picks in exchange for Beckham—who is angling for a lucrative new deal that will pay out an average of $18 million annually. 

However, co-owner John Mara has made it clear the team is not actively shopping Beckham. 

"He’s not on the block," Mara said, per Vacchiano. "Is that going to stop clubs from possibly calling us? No. But he’s not on the block. We’re not shopping him around."

With or without a new deal, Beckham will be looking to make up for lost time this year after a fractured ankle cut his 2017 season short in Week 5.