New York Giants wide receiver Malik Nabers is well motivated to return to play in the 2026 NFL season, and his magnificent talent will likely be on display versus the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday Night Football in Week 1.
Having overcome an untimely ACL injury in his second season, Nabers is more than enthralled by another chance to put on a show in front of Giants’ fans at MetLife Stadium. The Giants finished 4-13 in 2025, and home-field advantage was all but insignificant as they went 3-5 at home and 1-8 on the road.
Nabers played just as many games as the Giants won, posting two touchdown receptions on 35 targets. Undoubtedly, Nabers is the best at his position on the roster, and his ability to set the standard should rub off on rookie wide receiver
Malachi Fields as they build on the pillars of youth and energy.
Nabers will also benefit from the influence of veteran wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. and tight end Isaiah Likely, who, like Nabers, also suffered leg and foot injuries during their NFL careers. Nabers will operate as the primary passing target outside the hashes for quarterback Jaxson Dart, and his ability to win versus man coverage will be very important for offensive coordinator Matt Nagy.
Nagy’s use of 21-personnel and John Harbaugh's use of 12-personnel will force opponents to deploy more defenders inside the box. This dynamic may allow for Nabers to win on an island versus defensive backs, a strategy Harbaugh and Nagy will want to leverage all season long.
It's been roughly 12 months since Nabers suited up at MetLife Stadium. Spectators should expect a frenzy once Nabers gets his hands on the football on Sunday night.
This article originally appeared on Giants Wire: After 12 months, Giants' Malik Nabers appears set to return in Week 1
