Sauce Gardner: Giants’ Nabers reminds me of Jefferson, Chase

New York Jets cornerback Sauce Gardner had high praise for New York Giants rookie wide receiver Malik Nabers after their teams’ joint practice Wednesday.

“He remind me of like an LSU receiver,” the All-Pro corner said, per Fox Sports’ Ralph Vacchiano. “Kind of a little (Cincinnati Bengals wideout) Ja’Marr Chase, a little bit. A little (Minnesota Vikings receiver) Justin Jefferson.”

Gardner praised Nabers’ ability to get in and out of his breaks and said the Giants’ first-rounder will be a “pretty good player.” He clarified that he didn’t want to outright compare the rookie to the two superstar receivers, however.

The Giants would love for Nabers to follow in the footsteps of his fellow LSU products. Chase and Jefferson have combined for three second-team All-Pro nods, a first-team All-Pro selection, six Pro Bowls, an Offensive Rookie of the Year award (Chase), and an Offensive Player of the Year honor (Jefferson).

Nabers has caught four of his six targets for 54 yards through the Giants’ first two preseason contests. His reception and target totals pace the team’s wide receivers, and he ranks second at the position in receiving yards, having five fewer than veteran Darius Slayton.

The 21-year-old is expected to operate as the team’s top receiving option during the regular season after being selected sixth overall in the 2024 draft.