Malik Nabers, the New York Giants’ standout wide receiver, continues to sit out as the team prepares for its preseason game against the New York Jets. Fans at MetLife Stadium and throughout New York are eagerly awaiting updates on the rookie’s condition, especially with the regular season fast approaching. Nabers, whose impressive 2024 season made him a key offensive weapon, remains sidelined due to a minor injury that is separate from his previous setbacks.
After a breakout rookie year where Nabers hauled in 109 receptions for 1,204 yards and seven touchdowns while connecting with multiple Giants quarterbacks, concerns about his readiness for the upcoming season have intensified. Although he is no longer troubled by the toe injury that kept him out of OTAs and minicamps, nor the shoulder problem encountered in training camp, Nabers has been withheld from joint practices and preseason action for over a week.
Insights Into the Nature of Nabers’ New Injury
According to ESPN reporter Jordan Raanan, Nabers is dealing with an additional injury unrelated to his earlier toe and shoulder issues. A source shared with Raanan that this new ailment is minor and not expected to cause a long-term absence. Despite this, Nabers has not played in recent joint sessions against the Jets, underscoring the club’s cautious approach.
Jordan Raanan was told by a source that Malik Nabers, who was held out in both joint practices vs the Jets, is dealing with a separate injury not related to his previous toe and shoulder injury. He adds that his source said it’s a minor thing and that he’s going to be good. —Big Blue Film Room
Giants head coach Brian Daboll confirmed that Nabers is currently working closely with the team’s training staff on his rehab and stated,
doing everything he can to get back,
though he stopped short of offering a timeline for his return. Daboll emphasized a patient approach, saying,
We’re taking it one day at a time. He’s a professional, a competitor, so he wants to be out there with his teammates,
reflecting a focus on Nabers’ long-term recovery rather than rushing him into game action prematurely.
Impact of Nabers’ Absence on Giants’ Offensive Plans
The absence of Malik Nabers has immediate repercussions for the Giants’ offense, which struggled during the previous season. After finishing 3-14 in 2024, New York’s coaching staff and management are depending on players like Nabers to boost offensive production and bring renewed energy to the squad. Without him available for preseason snaps, other receivers such as Darius Slayton and Jalin Hyatt are receiving increased playing time, allowing the coaching staff to evaluate the depth chart under pressure situations.
Meanwhile, backup quarterback Jaxson Dart will see extended playing time in the preseason, providing the Giants additional opportunities to assess their offensive options before the regular season opener. This extended look in preseason is particularly valuable as coaches balance evaluating skill players with managing injury risks.
With the preseason progressing, the Giants and their fans are focused on ensuring Nabers is fully healthy before the official games commence. His ability to return at full strength could greatly influence the team’s outlook, particularly in complementing quarterbacks like Daniel Jones and adding a dynamic threat in the passing game.
Looking Ahead: What Nabers’ Return Could Mean for New York
Malik Nabers’ return to the field would mark a significant moment for the Giants’ offense, potentially accelerating their improvement after a difficult prior season. His skill set and chemistry with multiple quarterbacks position him as a central figure in New York’s passing attack for 2024-25. However, the priority remains his full recovery, allowing him to perform at his best when the stakes increase with the regular season’s kickoff.
As the countdown to Week 1 continues, the Giants’ medical and coaching teams are balancing optimism with caution. Fans hopeful for seeing Nabers back in action will want to watch closely over the next few weeks as updates provide clearer indications of his readiness to contribute on the field once again.