Giants WR Malik Nabers Likely to Miss 2026 Season Opener

Wide receiver Malik Nabers, the 22‑year‑old Pro Bowl talent for the New York Giants, underwent a second knee surgery to address scar tissue and stiffness after his initial ACL and meniscus repair last September. The procedure has raised doubts about his availability for the team’s Week 1 matchup against the Dallas Cowboys.

Giants head coach John Harbaugh said the goal remains to have Nabers ready for the season but described his status as “just impossible to predict.” NFL insider Adam Schefter echoed the concern, noting “it certainly sounds like at the very least opening night … is in jeopardy.” Analysts highlighted the risk of a sizable void in the Giants’ receiving corps if he is absent.

The Giants are preparing for the possibility that Nabers may begin the season on the physically unable to perform list, which would delay his return until at least Week 5.