Malik Nabers spent more time on the injury report than anyone wanted during his rookie year with the New York Giants. Those health concerns followed him into the 2025 offseason, creating real doubt about whether he’d be ready when the Giants face the Washington Commanders in Week 1.
But despite the setbacks, the talented receiver put together an impressive debut season that has everyone excited about what’s possible in 2025-26 with Russell Wilson throwing him the ball.
What Happened to Malik Nabers?
During training camp, Nabers was reportedly dealing with back and shoulder injuries. However, his toe injury, which had persisted since his college days at LSU, also troubled the young receiver. Coupled with initially vague updates from the wide receiver, many believed he might not be ready in time for their season opener. Notably, he also missed all preseason games.
#Giants WR Malik Nabers back at practice, getting reps in while equipment staff adjusts his helmet pic.twitter.com/vMlJUD6tCc
— Madelyn Burke (@MadelynBurke) August 19, 2025
Speaking to the media about his injuries and status, Nabers said:
“I feel good. I know it’s been a little ride, but right now, I feel good… I feel like I’m always ready. When it’s game time with those lights on, I believe my body is going to turn it on. He’s going to be ready to roll.”
He confirmed that his injuries were minor. The toe issue has been particularly persistent. In an earlier interview, Nabers described the injury as something he just couldn’t shake.
“It’s like a mosquito that don’t want to go away,” Nabers explained in June. “I’m trying to shoo it away. But I’ve been doing a great job with Russell (Wilson), trainers, you know, I’ve been using his physical therapist guys. I’ve been doing an excellent job of just staying on track of it and having his people, having my people, all together, trying to work on keeping me as healthy as possible. We’re moving in the right direction. We’re just staying on top of it so it don’t give me any problems later on down the line.”
Though many have flagged persistent injuries as concerning, Nabers is clearly focusing on safe recovery while planning for a healthy sophomore season.
Will Nabers Play Against the Commanders?
Despite the lingering injuries, it looks like Nabers will be playing against the Commanders on Sept. 7.
#Giants WR Malik Nabers, who was limited at times in camp with a toe issue, isn’t on the initial injury report, putting him on track to play Sunday vs. Washington.
LT Andrew Thomas (foot) was limited.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) September 3, 2025
The 22-year-old was off the initial injury report, indicating that he’s more than ready to kick off his season in Week 1.
Speaking to reporters after practice on Wednesday, Nabers admitted he’s less anxious in his second season. He added that it’s just another year in the league, and he is looking to build on last season’s success and move forward. The goal, of course, is to keep his body ‘as healthy as possible’.
Those injury concerns haven’t defined his career so far. No injury prevented Nabers from having a successful rookie campaign, with 109 receptions for 1,204 yards and seven touchdowns.
Additionally, Nabers has some history against Washington. He played two games against the Commanders last season. He combined for 19 catches (on 29 targets) for 186 yards and one touchdown.
The Week 1 Giants-Commanders clash will be held at Northwest Stadium in Maryland on Sept. 7 at 1:00 p.m. EST.