On October 1, 2026, Malik Nabers, the New York Giants' No. 1 receiver, showcased a strong performance against the Arizona Cardinals, catching six passes for 112 yards and one touchdown in a 36-24 victory at MetLife Stadium. This performance marked a significant return for Nabers, who had been recovering from a torn ACL and meniscus sustained in Week 4 of the previous season.
Nabers expressed that he was still cautious about his surgically repaired right knee prior to the game but felt confident throughout the week leading up to the match. "I knew it was coming," Nabers stated after the game, noting that he was trying to remain humble and let the game come to him.
The touchdown, a 25-yard reception from quarterback Jameis Winston, was Nabers' first since September 14, 2025. He described the play, saying, "I got the look in practice, I got the look watching film. When he called it, I was like, ‘Jameis, I’m about to be open.’ He was like, ‘I got you.’"
Despite his success, Nabers acknowledged that he did not feel completely back to his pre-injury form, indicating that he still had plays he felt he could have executed better. The game was also notable for the Giants, as they started 3-0 at home for the first time since 2008 and honored the Super Bowl-winning 1986 team during halftime. Nabers commented, "I know I’m capable of more. It’s just a little bit of what I can do. I can do more."
During the game, Nabers experienced a brief scare when he landed on his right shoulder after a catch but returned shortly after. Overall, it was a positive day for the Giants as they improved to 3-1 and took the lead in the NFC East.