EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — Malik Nabers, a rookie wide receiver for the New York Giants, had a standout performance in a 20-15 defeat against the Dallas Cowboys but left the game in the fourth quarter due to a concussion.
On Thursday night, Nabers recorded 12 catches for 115 yards, bringing his season totals to 35 receptions for 386 yards and three touchdowns across four games. He made history by becoming the first player in NFL history to achieve at least 25 receptions and three touchdowns in his first four games.
Giants head coach Brian Daboll expressed satisfaction with Nabers’ performance, stating, “He’s doing some good things. Again, glad we have him.”
Nabers sustained his injury during a critical fourth-down play late in the game while attempting to catch a pass from quarterback Daniel Jones near the sideline. As he tried to secure the ball in bounds, he fell hard, leading to an incomplete pass and a turnover on downs.
After lying on the ground for a minute, Nabers was taken to the medical tent and then to the locker room, where he was diagnosed with a concussion.
Following the game, Nabers was seen conversing with teammates, and wide receiver Wan’Dale Robinson noted that while he didn’t discuss much, he believed Nabers would be alright. Despite the injury, Nabers later shared a positive message on Instagram, reassuring fans that he was “All good” and thanking them for their prayers.
Nabers is now undergoing the NFL’s concussion protocol. The Giants will have a 10-day break before facing the Seattle Seahawks on the West Coast.
Nabers was a key part of the Giants’ offensive strategy on Thursday night, being targeted 15 times. His performance placed him second in all-time receptions for a player’s first four games, trailing only Los Angeles Rams rookie Puka Nacua.
He has also achieved two games this season with at least 10 receptions and 100 receiving yards, a feat previously matched by only Odell Beckham Jr. among rookies in NFL history.
Starting strong, Nabers made a notable 39-yard catch on the opening drive, showcasing his ability to evade defenders. As the game progressed, the Cowboys’ top cornerback, Trevon Diggs, was frequently assigned to cover him. Unfortunately, in Nabers’ absence during the final moments of the game, Jones was intercepted on a Hail Mary attempt as the Giants sought a last-minute score.