Malik Nabers was present on the first day of New York Giants training camp on July 29, 2026, marking a significant step in his recovery from a torn right anterior cruciate ligament and a partially torn right lateral meniscus. The receiver, who was the No. 6 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, played in only four games during his rookie season in 2024 before sustaining the injury.
Nabers avoided the physically unable to perform list heading into camp and participated in individual receiver drills and "on air" offensive periods, where no defensive players were present. He was observed taking steps, making cuts, planting his foot, and catching passes. Head coach John Harbaugh described Nabers' presence as "great" and noted he "looked good."
General manager Joe Schoen stated that Nabers reported early and had been running and cutting in the days leading up to camp. The team plans to manage his workload carefully, gradually adding physical goals based on his reaction to ensure he is at his best for the regular season opener on September 13 against the Cowboys. "The medical staff has a really good plan for him," Schoen said. "And we're going to, as I always say, listen to the patients."
Despite the Giants adding several other receivers in the offseason, including Darnell Mooney, Calvin Austin III, Odell Beckham Jr., JuJu Smith-Schuster, and Braxton Berrios, Nabers is expected to be a primary contributor when healthy. Quarterback Jaxson Dart expressed enthusiasm for Nabers' return, noting his "presence" and "aura" on the field. Dart mentioned that he and Nabers had limited on-field repetitions last year but have been actively communicating and studying film to build their on-field relationship.
Nabers recorded 109 catches for 1,204 yards as a rookie. He underwent a second procedure in the spring to address scar tissue, which caused a slight setback in his recovery. Outside linebacker Brian Burns also commented on Nabers' dynamic ability and cautioned the young receiver against rushing back too soon.