Malik Nabers' First Impressions: 3 Reasons Giants Fans Are Excited
Malik Nabers is back on the field at training camp with the New York Giants, and his presence is sparking optimism that he'll be healthy enough to play in a game sooner than later.
Nabers, the team's No. 1 receiver, has been running routes at full speed during individual drills despite not being a full participant in practice. He's 10 months removed from tearing the ACL in his right knee and is still on a lengthy road back from the injury.
At 23 years old, Nabers sounded more hopeful about his future than he did in early January when he walked with the assistance of a cane as a precaution. He's now visible on the field, and his teammates are taking notice.
Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart praised Nabers, saying, "Every time he's on the field, everybody knows where he's at. There's an aura that he has on the field that is exhilarating. It makes me happy. It makes everybody happy just to see him out there."
Nabers' progress is a positive sign for the team, especially given his limited time with Dart last season. The two have been working on building their rapport, but they've only been able to do so through talking and watching video together.
"We're just going to continue to get him in slowly," Dart said. "He's doing a great job with how he's attacking his recovery. I've got all the confidence in the world in him and his approach to the game."
Nabers has also been leaning on his teammates, including new teammate Odell Beckham Jr., to help him through the mental struggles of being away from football. "Overcoming an injury is not easy," starting left tackle Andrew Thomas said. "If anything, (it is good) just for his mental (state) to be back out here with the guys and running around and catching the ball."
Nabers' return to the field has been a gradual one, and he's taking it one step at a time. "No target dates," he said. "Just continuing to listen to the training staff, and they continue to ask me questions. And when I'm ready, I'm ready."
New coach John Harbaugh has been impressed with Nabers' hard work, saying, "I really am impressed with how hard he's worked. I just think he's worked really hard. He deserves to be out there doing what he (is doing). It's really cool to see."
Nabers is expected to continue progressing through team practice sessions, but the timeline for his return remains uncertain. The Giants' season opener against Dallas is still more than seven weeks away, and Nabers will need to continue showing progress before he's cleared to play.
Source: Yahoo Sports