New York Giants wide receiver Malik Nabers is “right on track” in his rehab but refused to guarantee availability for Week 1 of the 2026 season, prioritizing full health over any rushed return.
“My target date is when my body feels good to get out there, and I can continue to be who I am,” Nabers told reporters on Monday. “If my body doesn’t feel right (in Week 1), then I’m not going to play.”
The 22-year-old second-year pro suffered a season-ending injury in Week 4 of 2025 against the Los Angeles Chargers. Diagnosed with a torn ACL, torn meniscus, partially torn labrum, and turf toe, Nabers underwent surgery on October 28 to repair the ACL and meniscus. The other injuries healed naturally.
Early reports described a “clean” ACL tear with expectations of full recovery by training camp — potentially the healthiest Nabers has been since high school, given prior chronic turf toe and shoulder issues.
While the standard ACL timeline supports a possible September return, Nabers is wisely focusing on long-term durability. The explosive playmaker’s 2025 absence dealt a major blow to the Giants’ offense.
This article originally appeared on Giants Wire: New York Giants’ Malik Nabers won’t commit to Week 1 return in 2026

