Malik Nabers Leads Giants to Victory, Shakes Off Tanking Rumors | NFL News – Times of India

The New York Giants made headlines in Week 17, very clearly not for tanking but winning. Entering the game with a dismal 2-13 record, the Giants defied expectations with a 45-33 victory over the Indianapolis Colts at MetLife Stadium. While the win snapped a 10-game losing streak, it also complicated the Giants’ draft prospects. But rookie wide receiver Malik Nabers had no time for fan frustration over the team’s lost chance at the No. 1 draft pick.

“I ain’t got really nothing to say about that,” Nabers said when asked about fans hoping the Giants would lose to secure a better draft position. The 21-year-old receiver let his performance on the field do the talking, racking up 171 yards and two touchdowns, including a stunning 59-yard grab. His speed—clocked at 21.3 mph during the game—was a reminder of why he’s become a cornerstone of the Giants’ offense this season.

Playing for pride, not picks

Nabers’ rookie campaign has been nothing short of remarkable, especially given the Giants’ quarterback carousel. From Daniel Jones to Tommy DeVito and Drew Lock, Nabers has had to adjust to inconsistent play under center. Yet, he’s thrived, amassing 1,140 yards and six touchdowns on 104 receptions. He adapts, excels with a competitive spirit refusing to let up, even in a losing season.

“I’m not finna go out there and let people tee off on me to tank,” teammate Darius Slayton said, resonating Nabers’ defiance. “We’re always trying to win, and I think today showed that.”
This victory, however, pushed the Giants down to the No. 3 spot in the 2025 NFL Draft, with top QB prospects like Shedeur Sanders and Cam Ward potentially out of grabs. Still, the team’s vets, like Jermaine Eluemuor stressed on how important is it to build a winning culture over draft strategy. “You’ve got to establish some sort of culture,” Eluemuor said. “What is that player [drafted No. 1] even coming into if you’re okay with losing?”

A complicated draft future

The Giants now face tough decisions. New England, holding the No. 1 pick, likely won’t target a quarterback, making a trade-up possible but costly. The question is whether the Giants are willing to mortgage their future to pair a generational talent at quarterback with Nabers’ breakout potential.

For now, the Giants’ focus remains on finishing strong, with a Week 18 matchup against the Eagles. Regardless of where they land in the draft, one thing is clear: Malik Nabers isn’t interested in losing—on the field or in spirit.
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