As the New York Giants prepare for their season opener against the Washington Commanders next Sunday, wide receiver Malik Nabers is stepping into a bigger role both on and off the field.
Heading into his second season, the 2024 first-round pick said he trying to be more vocal in the locker room.
“It’s not natural, personally, but sometimes you have to step out of your comfort zone,” he said. “If we want everything to go right this season, your best players have to do those things.”
A major focus for Nabers has been building chemistry with new quarterback Russell Wilson. He described spending extensive time with Wilson this offseason, both on and off the field, to strengthen their connection.
“We’ve been on the same page a lot. That connection’s going to keep growing,” Nabers said. “When your quarterback is able to pick apart a defense as good as Russ is, it makes the receiver job a whole lot easier.”
Beyond the X’s and O’s, Nabers has been learning from Wilson’s leadership and professionalism.
“He’s an amazing person, amazing father. His family is amazing. He has the right people around him that keep him going,” Nabers said. “Being around him is that early process I’m taking as a young man, trying to pick up little pieces to help me grow as a person and as a man.”
Nabers dealt with a toe injury that kept him out of practice in the spring, and then minor shoulder and back issues that interrupted his practice time during training camp. He vowed to be ready for the season-opener against the Washington Commanders, though.
“I feel like I’m always ready,” Nabers said. “When it’s game time with those lights on, I believe my body is going to turn it on. He’s going to be ready to roll.”
Looking ahead to the season, Nabers kept it simple:
“We’re looking to win some games. That’s all I can say — I’m looking to win some games.”
