The New York Giants remain optimistic that wide receiver Malik Nabers can return for Week 1 of the 2026 season, but news of a second offseason knee procedure has prompted renewed concern about his rehabilitation.
Nabers underwent a follow-up surgery multiple weeks ago to remove scar tissue that had caused stiffness in his surgically repaired knee, per a new report from The Athletic's Dan Duggan that surfaced on Wednesday. The procedure, described as a “cleanup,” is not expected to change his projected recovery timeline.
Nabers originally tore both his ACL and meniscus during the Giants' Week 4 win over the Los Angeles Chargers this past season. The injury occurred in the first half of quarterback Jaxson Dart's first NFL start, cutting short what appeared to be another breakout campaign for the former LSU star. Before going down, Nabers had produced 18 receptions for 271 yards and two touchdowns in four games, including an explosive Week 2 showing against the Dallas Cowboys in which he finished with 167 receiving yards and two scores.
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The setback followed an outstanding rookie season in 2024. Nabers finished fifth in the NFL in receptions and seventh in receiving yards after recording 109 catches for 1,204 yards and seven touchdowns in 15 games. He earned Pro Bowl honors despite catching passes from three different starting quarterbacks: Daniel Jones, Drew Lock, and Tommy DeVito.
Head coach John Harbaugh said on the first day of voluntary workouts that Nabers' return timeline likely stretches into training camp and closer to the regular season. The receiver could reportedly begin camp on the active/PUP list while continuing rehab, similar to how left tackle Andrew Thomas was handled last year after foot surgery.
New York has spent the offseason strengthening its receiving corps while Nabers recovers. The Giants added Darnell Mooney, Calvin Austin III, and tight end Isaiah Likely in free agency, while also trading up in the draft for Notre Dame receiver Malachi Fields. Veteran receiver Darius Slayton also remains on the roster entering his eighth season with the franchise.
The New York Giants remain optimistic that wide receiver Malik Nabers can return for Week 1 of the 2026 season, but news of a second offseason knee procedure has prompted renewed concern about his rehabilitation. Nabers underwent a follow-up surgery multiple weeks ago to remove scar tissue that had caused stiffness in his surgically repaired knee, per a new report from The Athletic's Dan Duggan that surfaced on Wednesday.