Nabers Returns for Giants in Week 1 Win Over Cowboys

New York Giants wide receiver Malik Nabers made his return to the field on Sunday night, playing in the team's 28-20 victory over the Dallas Cowboys in their Week 1 season opener. The game marked Nabers' first appearance since he tore his ACL in September 2025. His availability had been uncertain throughout the week, with the team listing him as questionable and designating him a game-time decision. Nabers confirmed after the game that he did not decide to play until during pregame warmups. He said he told his family not to attend the game because he did not want to disappoint them if he ultimately could not play. "The deciding factor was just when I got out there, I just felt good," Nabers said. "I got a little chill through my body and I was like, 'Yeah, it's time. It's time.'" The receiver was a full participant in practice throughout the week leading up to the game. Head coach John Harbaugh had expressed confidence in Nabers' readiness, stating earlier in the week, "I think he's ready to go." However, the final decision was left to Nabers and the training staff to evaluate his knee during warmups. Nabers finished the game with six catches on nine targets for 69 yards.