Malik Nabers on Giants Preseason Debut: ‘Everything Has to Go My Way to Get the Ball’

After a quiet preseason debut on Thursday night, New York Giants rookie Malik Nabers understands it will take more than just being open to get the ball in the NFL.

Speaking to reporters after the Giants’ 14-3 win over the Detroit Lions, Nabers explained “everything has to go my way to get the ball” at this level:

“It felt good to be back on the football field, playing a real game. We had a plan. I wasn’t sure if I was playing. I did a very good job of getting open, but everything has to go my way to get the ball. It was kind of slippery out there. I think I could’ve done a better job of creating separation, getting better looks for the QB to throw the ball in better spots. That’s all I can do —continue to do what I do.”

Nabers was only on the field for 12 snaps, the seventh-fewest of any offensive player for the Giants. Drew Lock, who started at quarterback, didn’t target the rookie wideout.

Light rain at MetLife Stadium made playing conditions tough on both teams. Neither offense could do much of anything through the air. Lock and Tommy DeVito combined to go 12-of-25 for 95 yards with no touchdowns and one interception.

Lions quarterbacks Nate Sudfeld and Hendon Hooker finished 18-of-33 for 110 yards with no touchdowns and one interception.

Given the issues New York could have along the offensive line and uncertainty about Daniel Jones returning from a torn ACL, it wouldn’t be a surprise if there are several games this season in which Nabers struggles to make an impact.

As long as Nabers shows the talent that made him a superstar at LSU before the Giants took him No. 6 overall in the 2024 NFL draft, everyone will be happy with what he adds to the offense.

It will be up to Jones to get Nabers the ball and head coach Brian Daboll to scheme up plays that emphasize his ability to make things happen when the ball comes his way.