Malik Nabers, who played just four games in 2025, has finally taken a major step toward his NFL return on Monday. The New York Giants wide receiver removed his red non-contact jersey and participated in live contact drills for the first time since tearing his ACL.
Nabers joined three 11-on-11 plays and three 7-on-7 reps. He moved well and made several difficult catches, including one impressive grab after hitting the ground.
The Pro Bowl receiver also dropped a pass and committed a false start. Those mistakes shows that he still has work ahead after missing most of the past year.
MORE: 49ers’ Christian McCaffrey explains why he chose his own brand over Nike
Giants head coach John Harbaugh remained encouraged by what he saw.
“He’s doing well with that,” Harbaugh said. “He’s strong, in a good place. How he gets through practice, how ready he is to play and protect himself is really based on practice. You’re watching practice too. You can see it.””
Harbaugh also emphasized that Nabers’ medical progress remains important. “Those are all kind of things you can assume based on watching the guy practice. But the only thing I know more than you guys know is what the doctors and trainers tell me as far as his rehab,” he said.
Nabers tore his right ACL and meniscus during Week 4 against the Los Angeles Chargers last season. He underwent surgery before needing another procedure to address scar tissue and stiffness.
Giants need Malik Nabers without rushing his returnWhite Sulphur Springs, WV, USA; New York Giants wide receiver Malik Nabers (1) walks on the field after practice during training camp at The Greenbrier Resort Sports Performance Center. Mandatory Credit: Ben Queen-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters)Nabers’ availability could reshape New York’s offensive structure entering Week 1. He recorded 18 catches for 271 yards and two touchdowns before his injury last season.
The Giants also have a new coaching staff and quarterback Jaxson Dart entering his first full season. So, Nabers gives the offense a proven explosive target.
Nabers needed to experience contact before returning to games. Monday’s practice provided that important test without immediately placing him in a regular-season matchup.
“It was a good practice for him today,” Harbaugh said. “He got the red shirt off. That was a good step.”
From a performance standpoint, the Giants should prioritize Nabers’ movement quality over his practice statistics. A few missed opportunities matter less than how his knee responds after contact.
MORE: Vikings’ star WR shares he helped QB J.J. McCarthy fight ‘negativity’
The Giants open the season against the Dallas Cowboys on September 13. Nabers now appears positioned for that game, provided he avoids another setback.
For a rebuilding Giants offense, his return could offer a major boost. However, New York must balance the need for its best receiver with the long-term importance of protecting his recovery.
—Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories with The Big Lead Newsletter —
Leave a Comment