Giants Eye Malik Nabers' Return After Second Knee Surgery

Giants wide receiver Malik Nabers underwent a second right-knee procedure this offseason to excise scar tissue causing stiffness. The “cleanup” surgery, performed “multiple weeks ago,” follows the Oct. 28 operation after his September 2025 ACL tear and meniscus repair. Sources say the added surgery does not change the recovery plan, but the team still hopes he will be ready for the Week 1 opener against Dallas on Sept. 13, 2026.

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As a 2024 rookie, Nabers set a franchise record with 109 catches for 1,204 yards and seven touchdowns, ranking fifth league-wide in receptions. He reached 127 catches in his first 19 games, the second-most in NFL history behind Odell Beckham Jr. before 20 games. In 2025, before his injury, he added 18 catches for 271 yards and two scores.

ESPN

Giants officials remain optimistic. A source told ESPN the team hopes Nabers will be ready for Week 1. In April, head coach John Harbaugh said the club aims to have him on the field “at some point during training camp” and ultimately “fully ready to go for the start of the season.” The roster now includes WRs Darnell Mooney, Calvin Austin III, tight end Isaiah Likely and rookie WR Malachi Fields to support the offense. OTAs begin May 19 and a mandatory minicamp runs June 8-10.

Report: Nabers had 2nd knee surgery to remove scar tissue

ESPN analyst Dan Graziano questioned Nabers’ availability, stating, “I think the Cowboys are probably in a better position to make a statement Week 1… I just don’t know at this point, and I don’t think the Giants do either, whether Malik Nabers will be back and at full strength for that game.” Fan tweets echoed the doubt with remarks like “No shot he’s ready for opener” and “Yeah he’s not playing Week 1.”

Malik Nabers surgery update raises questions as New York Giants are set to host NFC East clash in Week 1 vs the Cowboys

The Giants have not announced a firm return date. Team sources say the second surgery will not affect the schedule, while analysts and fans note the absence of a confirmed Week 1 timeline.

Malik Nabers surgery update raises questions as New York Giants are set to host NFC East clash in Week 1 vs the Cowboys

• “I think the Cowboys are probably in a better position to make a statement Week 1. Because I just don't know at this point, and I don't think the Giants do either, whether Malik Nabers will be back and at full strength for that game.” — Dan Graziano, ESPN

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• “I love him. He’s a great dude. He’s all about teaching the guys that are coming in. The tempo of the league that is a little bit different. It’s been a cool learning experience.” — Malachi Fields, Giants rookie

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