The New York Giants landed LSU stud wideout Malik Nabers with the sixth overall selection in the 2024 NFL draft.
After falling short in their quest for a replacement for quarterback Daniel Jones, Nabers fell from the sky into general manager Joe Schoen’s lap on draft night.
It may be the most significant thing to happen to the Giants in years. Nabers comes from a program that produced former Giants superstar Odell Beckham Jr. and All-Pro pass catchers such as Ja’Marr Chase and Justin Jefferson.
Nabers is poised to transform the Giants’ sagging offense. With Saquon Barkley taking off for greener pastures, the rookie becomes the Giants’ most potent weapon.
The folks at Pro Football Network agree. Nabers has been identified as the rookie who will have a ‘massive’ impact on the Giants this season.
For at least another year, the New York Giants’ contingent — led by Brian Daboll and Joe Schoen — is placing its hope in Daniel Jones. It’s unclear if Jones will rebound after a disastrous 2023 campaign, but he’ll need to lean on rookie WR Malik Nabers to accomplish that.
Nabers broke out in 2023, distinguishing himself as a venerable three-level threat at the WR position. He can separate and generate RAC in isolation with his twitch and explosion, and he has impeccable catch-point instincts and proactivity on the attack.
Nabers opened eyes during the team’s offseason workouts and appears to be the goods. Giants head coach Brian Daboll is taking a more tempered approach, however.
“Obviously we thought he was a good player where we selected him,” Daboll told reporters at the team’s minicamp last month.
“He’s got a lot to learn. Was a productive player at LSU. Has a long way to go here. Kind of what we talked about with the tight ends, along with the receivers now, he has to learn multiple positions. He is making strides every day and we’ll try to get him ready to go for training camp.”
It is there — and in preseason games — where we will get our first glance at Nabers’ special talents. It is an exciting time for both him and the Giants.
“He’s just got a rare competitiveness and edge to him, something that I haven’t been around,” said Giants assistant general manager Brandon Brown. “I kind of say he’s got moxie, dog. The cool kids call it aura these days, where he wants to be at his best versus the best on the biggest platform, and he’s going to let you know about it.”
“The ceiling is what he makes of it, and we know what he is every day,” added Brown. “He raises the competitive stamina and outlook in this group. It’s a young receiver group, and he’s a guy that comes in, and everybody knows rent is due every day. That’s what you want out of a guy you take in the first round.”
Hold on to your hats.
