The red jersey is gone, and the Giants might finally get their star back. Malik Nabers took part in full-team drills without the non-contact gear for the first time. This shift signals a major step toward him playing in the season opener against the Dallas Cowboys on September 13. The sight of him running live routes without restrictions changes the entire outlook for the team.
Practice Progress Shows Real Signs
Nabers completed a handful of reps during the session, mixing 11-on-11 and 7-on-7 drills. He caught several passes thrown by Jaxson Dart, Jameis Winston, and Brandon Allen. The best play was a diving grab on a comeback route from Brandon Allen right in front of a cornerback. Nabers was barely touched during any of those 13 reps. He moved with ease while completing three repetitions in 11-on-11 and three in 7-on-7 drills. He managed an impressive catch by diving down to scoop a pass from the turf. Sure, he dropped a pass and had a false start, but that is normal for a player getting back into rhythm.
Harbaugh Sees Hope But Won’t Promise
Head coach John Harbaugh says it is “reasonable” to think Nabers has a chance to play in the Giants’ Sept. 13 season-opener against the Dallas Cowboys. Harbaugh noted that the medical staff reports Nabers’ rehab is “doing well.” He felt it was mandatory for Nabers to participate in contact drills at some stage prior to returning to actual games. However, the coach refuses to make guarantees. Harbaugh stated he just does not want to make any kinds of statements like that regarding a guarantee for Nabers playing Week 1. He added that he thought Nabers looked good while watching the practice. The coach believes the only thing he knows more than fans is what the doctors and trainers tell him about the rehab.
The Next Step Is Live Contact
Harbaugh said there was a possibility of Nabers getting into contact drills this week. This is the final hurdle before the season starts. If he can take hits in practice without issues, the Giants offense gets a massive boost. The team needs all the help they can get against a tough Dallas defense. Fans should watch the practice logs closely this week. The red jersey came off, which means the path is clear. Now the body has to prove it can handle the game speed. The comment that he looked good might be the most important line of the summer. If he plays Week 1, the Giants offense looks very different. If not, they will have to wait and see. The evidence points to a return, but the coach stays quiet. That silence is the only thing left to break.
