Giants' Malik Nabers returns after shoulder injury in Week 2 loss to Rams
Wide receiver Malik Nabers left the game with a shoulder issue early in the second quarter, returned later in the period and finished with one catch for one yard as New York fell to Los Angeles.
Malik Nabers exited the Giants' Week 2 matchup against the Los Angeles Rams early in the second quarter after appearing to sustain a shoulder injury while contesting a pass. He was attended by trainers and listed as questionable before rejoining the game midway through the second quarter. Nabers recorded one reception for one yard on two targets before the injury and added another catch after his return, finishing with one catch on four targets for the contest.
The Giants have monitored Nabers' shoulder condition, noting that he has dealt with a right-shoulder issue since his college career. The team has not provided a definitive status update, but sources indicated he was “on track to play.”
Nabers, who missed the previous season’s opening game after tearing his ACL in 2025, had previously posted six catches for 69 yards in the Giants’ Week 1 win over Dallas. Offensive coordinator Matt Nagy integrated him into the passing game early, pairing him with rookie tight end Isaiah Likely on a combined 17 targets during the first half.
The Giants have elevated two practice-squad receivers to the active roster ahead of the game, suggesting they are preparing for the possibility that Nabers could be unavailable. If he remains sidelined, the team is expected to rely on receivers Malachi Fields, Odell Beckham Jr. and Darnell Mooney.
"My participation level is entirely my call," Nabers told reporters, emphasizing his focus on long-term health.
The Giants lost to the Rams, and Nabers' status for upcoming weeks remains uncertain as the team continues to assess his shoulder and overall health.