Nabers' Camp Comeback
Giants' Malik Nabers Back in Drills, Team Prioritizes Safe Rehab Over Rushing Return
Key Points
Nabers is nine months removed from ACL and right knee meniscus repair, with a recent scar-tissue cleanup procedure earlier this year, a combination that supports a cautious ramp-up rather than a rapid return.
The team intentionally kept Nabers off the physically unable to perform list at the start of camp, signaling a structured, day-by-day plan to increase workload and avoid rushing his return.
Nabers’ rookie season in 2024 established a high ceiling, as he recorded 109 receptions for 1,204 yards and seven touchdowns, underscoring the potential impact if he returns to full health.
Quarterback Jaxson Dart emphasized Nabers’ on-field presence and progress, noting the receiver’s aura and the positive early look as he progresses through rehab.
Malik Nabers stepped onto the field at Giants training camp Wednesday, running routes, cutting, and catching passes in individual drills — his first practice action since tearing his right ACL and meniscus last season. The appearance came nine months after surgery and weeks after a scar-tissue cleanup procedure, according to Sportsnaut and The Score.
Nabers did not take part in full-team drills, and coaches have set no firm date for his return. But the fact that the Giants kept him off the physically unable to perform list signals a structured, day-by-day plan to bring him back safely, NY Post reported.
A Tantalizing First Look After Season-Ending Knee Surgery
Nabers warmed up, ran crisp routes, and hauled in catches during the individual portion of practice in White Sulphur Springs, W.Va. The Score noted he appeared fluid moving around the field, a strong early sign for a receiver who missed the final stretch of his rookie season.
Quarterback Jaxson Dart was on the field alongside Nabers. Dart pointed to Nabers' presence and "aura" as a boost for the offense, according to NY Post. Still, team officials were quick to stress the process is ongoing and workload will be managed closely each day.
Double Surgery Makes Caution the Only Smart Play
Nabers underwent ACL and meniscus repair on his right knee last year. Earlier in 2025, he had a second procedure to remove built-up scar tissue. That combination — two surgeries in under a year — is why the Giants are not rushing anything, per Sportsnaut.
The team's medical staff is monitoring his knee's response to each session. No fixed Week 1 timetable exists. Participation will depend on how the knee holds up, how workload increases, and whether any setbacks emerge during camp, according to NY Post.
Rookie Numbers Remind Everyone What's at Stake
The urgency around Nabers' health makes sense when you look at what he did as a rookie. In 2024, he caught 109 passes on 170 targets for 1,204 yards and seven touchdowns in 15 games. He earned a Pro Bowl selection in his first NFL season, per The Score.
That production made him one of the most dangerous young receivers in football. A healthy Nabers would change the Giants' offense immediately. But the team has made clear it will not sacrifice long-term health for a faster return, Sportsnaut noted.
Day-by-Day Plan Leaves Week 1 an Open Question
By keeping Nabers off the PUP list, the Giants gave themselves flexibility. He can ramp up at any pace the medical staff approves. But that same flexibility means nothing is guaranteed. Coaches will watch each practice and adjust his workload based on how the knee responds, NY Post reported.
The overall mood around camp was cautiously optimistic. Nabers looked good. His teammates and coaches are excited. But the organization's message was consistent: this is a process, not a sprint, and the first day of camp is just the beginning.
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