The New York Giants realize they need to pull off upsets against more skilled teams to turn their season around. After starting with a 1-3 record, there are few signs that things will improve soon, especially with tough matchups against the Seattle Seahawks, Philadelphia Eagles, and Cincinnati Bengals looming in October. The situation is made even more difficult by the potential absence of rookie receiver Malik Nabers, who has been New York’s top offensive player so far and is having a standout season, reminiscent of Giants legend Odell Beckham Jr. However, he suffered a concussion in Thursday’s 20-15 loss to the Dallas Cowboys after a hard fall during a failed fourth-down attempt. He has since entered concussion protocol, hoping to recover in time for the Week 5 game against the Seattle Seahawks. Veteran receiver Darius Slayton gave a positive update on Nabers, saying, “He’s doing well. I saw him today for the first time since Friday, and he was in good spirits. He’s doing what he needs to do. With a concussion, you mainly just have to keep your eyes closed, and he’s managing that.” It’s clear that if the Giants have to face Seattle without their most effective player, it will be a tougher challenge. Nabers has become crucial to the offense, accounting for a 38.2 percent target share, 44 percent of the team’s receiving yards, and three of their four touchdown receptions. Slayton, who also dealt with a concussion earlier this season, could relate to what Nabers is experiencing.
“It’s different for everyone,” Slayton mentioned. “A concussion can impact your mood, sensitivity, vision, and more. Each person’s experience varies, but he’s managing it well and I believe he’ll be fine.” Nabers’ availability for Sunday’s game is still up in the air, but the Giants are committed to taking a day-by-day approach with their star receiver. The extra time off from Thursday Night Football may aid his recovery, but the team won’t have clarity on his short-term status until later in the week.
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