East Rutherford, N.J. — New York Giants wide receiver Malik Nabers downplayed a back issue that sidelined him for the final two preseason games, calling it a “minor thing” as he pushes toward Week 1.
Nabers returned to practice last Monday but was held out of the preseason finale against the New England Patriots, a game in which starters did not play. A source at the time described the problem as little more than normal camp tightness, and Nabers has said there hasn’t been any setback to date. The Giants have managed the issue cautiously, but Nabers expects to be ready when the season opens.
The 2024 offseason has been one of precaution for Nabers. He sat out spring activities with a toe injury that traces back to last season and left a practice early in the summer after landing hard on his shoulder. Still, he’s looked capable in the early stages of summer work and is not expected to miss Week 1 against the Washington Commanders.
“I feel like I’m always ready,” Nabers said. “When it’s game time and those lights are on, I believe my body’s going to turn it on. It’s going to be ready.”
The Giants are counting on Nabers to be their top playmaker. He led the NFL last season with 11.3 targets per game and produced 109 receptions for 1,204 yards with seven touchdowns, even missing two games with a concussion. The first-round pick also battled through a string of minor injuries that limited practice time but not his production in games.
A potential boost for Nabers this season is his developing connection with new quarterback Russell Wilson. It’s early, but Nabers says the chemistry is on track. “We’ve been on the same page a lot,” Nabers said. “That connection is going to keep growing. It can never be as great as we want it to be, but it’s going to be as good as we hope it’s going to be. We’ll keep working to get those catches in.” Wilson has quickly taken to Nabers, and their offseason meetings, including a San Diego visit with Nabers as part of his group, have translated into on-field trust.
Nabers led the Giants’ receivers in catches during training camp, and Wilson has shown a willingness to target him. The quarterback is bullish about Nabers’ potential for a big season, praising his downfield ability and versatility in the short and midrange game.
Nabers is focused on Week 1, and the early signs suggest he’s physically ready. He appeared to run well in the portion of practice open to the media, with his eyes on victory rather than health concerns.
What this means for the Giants: Nabers remains the focal point of the passing attack, and his health and growing rapport with Wilson will shape the offense’s success this season. If Nabers stays on the field and continues to build that connection, New York could lean on him as a high-volume, big-play threat from the outset.
Summary: Nabers lauds the back issue as minor and is optimistic about a Week 1 return. His proven production, combined with a developing rapport with Wilson, positions him to anchor the Giants’ passing game as they open against the Commanders. A healthy Nabers could provide a steady, explosive target and a strong start to what figures to be a pivotal season for New York.