Despite a disappointing season for the New York Giants, wide receiver Malik Nabers has consistently exceeded expectations. The sixth overall pick in the NFL Draft is poised to make history as he enters the season finale against the Philadelphia Eagles (13-3) just four receptions shy of breaking Steve Smith’s franchise record of 107 catches, set in 2009.
While the Giants struggle with a 3-13 record, Nabers has emerged as a standout performer on one of the league’s least effective offenses. His remarkable achievement is highlighted by his performance in last week’s 45-33 victory over the Colts, which ended a franchise-record 10-game losing streak. In that game, Nabers recorded seven catches for 171 yards and two touchdowns, showcasing his ability to turn short passes into significant gains.
Nabers attributed his success to a combination of factors, including effective blocking from teammates like tackle Evan Neal, who played a crucial role on his first touchdown. “I took some time to look at my old film and talked with my old coach,” Nabers said. “I realized I wasn’t scared when I had the ball in college; I was just running.”
Pro Football Focus credited him with 103 yards after the catch in that game, surpassing his previous season high of 83 yards achieved in Week 2. This performance mirrors his final college season, where he recorded 89 catches for 1,569 yards and 14 touchdowns.
While Nabers is reluctant to compare his college experience to the NFL, he acknowledges the intensity of the professional game. “There are older guys in this league with families to feed, so they’re playing their hearts out,” he said. “I wouldn’t say it was any harder or easier. I had a lot of great mentors pushing me.”
Throughout the season, Nabers has managed various injuries by prioritizing his physical health with treatments like cold plunges, hyperbaric chamber sessions, and massages. As he prepares for the final game of the season, his focus remains on securing a victory.
“Every game we play, we’re always hungry,” Nabers stated. “We go into every game with the same mentality: to win. Never expect to lose, always expect to win.”
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