Malik Nabers Toe Injury: How the Giants Will Handle His Absence

By Jason Bolton August 13, 2025 02:15

The New York Giants are facing another challenge as their top wide receiver Malik Nabers continues to deal with a persistent toe injury that has limited his participation throughout the 2025 training camp. Nabers, who missed significant time during spring workouts and has been held out of various practices recently, remains a question mark heading into the early weeks of the season. The Giants’ coaching staff and medical team are exercising caution with his injury, aiming to have him fully prepared for the long haul rather than rushing his return.

Nabers’ toe injury, often referred to as “turf toe,” has been troublesome enough to keep him out of the Giants’ joint practices and preseason games so far. Head coach Brian Daboll has been guarded in discussing specifics, stating, “I’m not going to get into injuries. Malik’s rehab and what he’s doing, he’s doing everything he can to get back.” Despite describing the injury initially as “nothing serious,” it has lingered longer than anticipated, forcing Nabers to miss the conclusion of critical 11-on-11 drills, a pregame walkthrough, and their exhibition opener against the Buffalo Bills.

The absence of Nabers, who was selected sixth overall in the previous NFL draft and quickly made his mark with 109 receptions as a rookie, is a significant blow to the Giants' offense. Quarterback Russell Wilson emphasized Nabers’ importance, saying, “Malik and I have spent considerable time together. I trust his work ethic and his ability to create separation. When he is on the field, we have been exceptional in our performances. I believe he has been invaluable to us.” Wilson also acknowledged other receivers stepping up, including Zach Pascal and rookie Beaux Collins, but made it clear that the offense’s rhythm depends heavily on Nabers’ availability.

From a tactical perspective, the Giants face a challenge platooning their wide receiver group without their top target. The coaching staff is adjusting by spreading targets among other receivers like Pascal, Collins, and Armon Wallace, while also focusing more on the running game and short-yardage passing to compensate for the missing deep-threat ability Nabers provides.

Medically, the Giants are managing Nabers’ toe injury conservatively, mindful that turf toe can significantly hamper a player’s mobility and explosiveness if not fully healed. Dr. Daniel J. Kaplan, a sports orthopedic surgeon, explained that turf toe requires careful rehab to avoid long-term complications. The Giants' medical staff appear to be following this prudent approach, aiming to maximize Nabers' availability once fully fit rather than risking a setback.

With less than a month before the Giants’ season opener against the Washington Commanders, the team’s hope is that Nabers recovers in time to contribute. However, the lingering nature of the injury means the Giants must prepare as if they could be without him for an extended period. This situation elevates the importance of depth at the receiver position and requires continued development from other offensive weapons.

In sum, Malik Nabers’ toe injury presents a critical test for the New York Giants as they look to balance cautious rehab with the urgency of preparing for the NFL season. Nabers’ absence has already impacted practice dynamics and preseason performance, but the team remains optimistic about his eventual return. As Wilson noted, “Everyone is contributing, but Malik plays a crucial role,” making his recovery a top priority for the Giants’ coaching and medical staff as they navigate the early camp hurdles.