How serious is Malik Nabers’ injury? What New York Giants’ fans should know
Giants wide receiver Malik Nabers was in intense pain after falling to the ground when he tried to catch a deep pass from Jaxson Dart in the second quarter Sunday. Ishika Samant/Getty Images
The New York Giants’ first win of the season came at a steep cost. Star wide receiver Malik Nabers, the team’s most dynamic playmaker, is feared to have suffered a torn ACL during Sunday’s 21–18 victory over the Los Angeles Chargers, according to multiple reports.
The injury occurred midway through the second quarter when rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart launched a deep pass down the right sideline. Nabers elevated for the ball but landed awkwardly, immediately clutching his right knee in visible pain. The play was ultimately wiped out by an offsides penalty on Los Angeles, but the damage to the Giants’ offense may prove lasting.
Nabers was carted off the field as several teammates knelt nearby, clearly shaken. Fans inside MetLife Stadium offered applause as the 21-year-old receiver waved while leaving the field. He did not return, finishing the afternoon with two catches for 20 yards.
Head coach Brian Daboll offered little detail postgame, saying he had yet to meet with team doctors. “Injuries happen, and you hate to see it for any player—especially Malik. He’s a huge part of what we do,” Daboll said. “But this is the NFL, and it’s next man up.”
The Giants’ sideline told a more emotional story. Dart, who earned his first career start on Sunday, admitted Nabers would be one of his first calls after the game. “He’s one of one,” the rookie said. “We’ll be lifting him up in prayer.” Veteran wideout Darius Slayton echoed that sentiment: “We got his back. We’re going to finish this season for him.”
Nabers, the No. 6 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, quickly became the centerpiece of New York’s passing attack as a rookie. He set a franchise record with 109 receptions for 1,204 yards and seven touchdowns last season, earning a Pro Bowl nod. Through three games this year, he had already racked up 16 catches for 251 yards and two scores. His 127 receptions in 19 career games trail only Odell Beckham Jr. for the most in NFL history through 20 contests.
If MRI results confirm an ACL tear, Nabers would likely miss the remainder of the season—an enormous blow for an offense still finding its rhythm. The timing is particularly devastating, as Sunday’s game was meant to showcase Dart’s debut under center. The rookie quarterback finished 13-of-20 for 111 yards with a touchdown to tight end Theo Johnson, leading the Giants to their first victory of the year.
For now, the Giants celebrate a hard-fought win while bracing for the possibility that their most explosive weapon may be sidelined for the long haul.
FAQ Section:
Q1: What happened to Malik Nabers in the Giants vs Chargers game?
Malik Nabers went down in the second quarter while attempting to catch a deep ball. He clutched his right knee in pain and was carted off the field.
Q2: What is Malik Nabers’ injury update?
Early reports suggest Nabers may have suffered a torn ACL. He is scheduled to undergo an MRI on Monday to determine the full extent of the injury.
Q3: How important is Malik Nabers to the Giants’ offense?
Nabers is the Giants’ top playmaker, recording 127 receptions in his first 19 games—second only to Odell Beckham Jr. in NFL history for that mark.
Q4: Who will replace Malik Nabers if he misses time?
Veteran receiver Darius Slayton is expected to step into a larger role, with Jalin Hyatt also seeing increased opportunities in the offense.
Q5: How did the Giants perform without Nabers?
Despite Nabers’ exit, rookie QB Jaxson Dart led the Giants to their first win of the season, defeating the Chargers 21-18 in Week 4.
