The New York Giants’ first victory of the season came at a crushing cost. On Monday, head coach Brian Daboll confirmed that wide receiver Malik Nabers tore the ACL in his right knee during Sunday’s 21-18 win over the Los Angeles Chargers, ending his 2025 campaign after just four games.
The injury occurred late in the second quarter when Nabers went up for a deep pass from rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart. As he landed, his right leg appeared to stick awkwardly in the MetLife Stadium turf, and he immediately grabbed at his knee. He was carted off the field moments later, visibly emotional, and did not return.
“It’s obviously a tough loss for our football team,” Daboll told reporters. “He’s one of our better players, one of the better players at his position in the league. We’ll regroup and get the guys ready to play that are here.”
The second-year star had quickly emerged as the Giants’ most dynamic offensive weapon since being drafted No. 6 overall in 2024. Nabers set a franchise rookie record with 109 receptions last season, finishing with 1,204 yards and seven touchdowns despite instability at quarterback. Through four games this year, he had 18 catches for 271 yards and two scores.
His absence now leaves rookie quarterback Dart without his top target and the Giants’ offence with a major void. Veterans Wan’Dale Robinson and Darius Slayton are expected to lead the receiving corps, alongside Jalin Hyatt and rookie Beaux Collins. Daboll hinted that the team could also explore external options before the trade deadline.
However, the focus remains on Nabers’ recovery. He is expected to undergo surgery in the coming weeks, with the hope of returning in time for the start of the 2026 season.
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“Please, get rid of the turf”: Odell Beckham Jr. Slams MetLife Surface After Malik Nabers’ ACL Tear
The sight of Nabers crumpled on the turf reignited an old debate about MetLife Stadium’s controversial playing surface. One of the loudest voices came from a familiar name: former Giants receiver Odell Beckham Jr.
Beckham, who himself suffered a severe ankle injury on the same field in 2017, took to social media to demand change.
“Dear @NFL, I mean this with the utmost love and respect,” Beckham wrote. “We take all the precautions in the world with everything else when it comes to players’ health and safety. Please, please, please get rid of the turf. Thank you in advance. Love.”
He didn’t stop there, dubbing the surface “DeathLife” and pointing out that too many stars have seen their careers derailed at MetLife.
“Respect and you know I love the Giants, but DeathLife has taken too many talented players away from the game,” Beckham added. “I know it’s not all the turf’s fault, but at least can we make sure if turf has to stay, it’s the highest quality possible? At least start the discussion.”
The incident brought fresh attention to a growing list of high-profile injuries at MetLife in recent years, including Aaron Rodgers’ Achilles tear in his Jets debut last season, as well as ACL injuries to Nick Bosa, Solomon Thomas, and Jaelan Phillips. Even in Sunday’s game, Chargers rookie left tackle Joe Alt left on a cart after injuring his ankle on the same surface.
For Giants fans, though, the immediate concern is their young star. Nabers had just begun carving his name into franchise history, and now the team must figure out how to move forward without him.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long will Malik Nabers be out after his ACL tear?
Malik Nabers has been ruled out for the rest of the 2025 season. He is expected to undergo surgery in the coming weeks and should have enough recovery time to return for the start of the 2026 season if rehabilitation goes as planned.
How big a loss is Nabers for the Giants’ offence?
It’s a massive blow. Nabers was the team’s leading playmaker and rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart’s most reliable target. His absence will force the Giants to lean heavily on Wan’Dale Robinson, Darius Slayton, and Jalin Hyatt, none of whom bring the same game-changing ability as Nabers.
Could the Giants look to add another wide receiver after Nabers’ injury?
Yes, the Giants may consider exploring the trade market before the November deadline or adding depth through free agency. Players like Romeo Doubs of the Packers or former Giant Isaiah Hodgins have been mentioned as potential options to help patch the void.
Why is MetLife Stadium’s turf so controversial?
The artificial surface at MetLife has been linked to a string of high-profile injuries in recent years, including Aaron Rodgers’ torn Achilles and ACL injuries to multiple stars. Critics, including Odell Beckham Jr., argue that the turf increases injury risk compared to natural grass, and calls for the NFL to intervene have only grown louder after Nabers’ injury.
What’s next for Nabers and the Giants moving forward?
For Nabers, the next step is surgery and a long rehabilitation process aimed at getting him back to full strength in 2026. For the Giants, the focus will be on finding ways to keep the offence afloat without their top receiver while also developing Jaxson Dart under challenging circumstances.