The New York Giants could be without Malik Nabers for their Week 1 clash with the Dallas Cowboys as the wide receiver continues his recovery from last season’s ACL and meniscus injury.
Nabers suffered the injuries in Week 4 of the 2025 season, and head coach John Harbaugh said earlier this week that his status would be revealed with the team’s official game designations Sunday.
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Will Malik Nabers play on Sunday night vs. Cowboys?
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Malik Nabers took part fully in the New York Giants’ practice on Friday, but his questionable designation leaves his availability for Sunday night uncertain. He could ultimately be a game-time decision against the Dallas Cowboys.
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The Giants’ inactive list will be released 90 minutes before kickoff, so fans should know Nabers’ status by approximately 7 p.m. ET.
There is plenty of reason for optimism, though. Nabers avoided the PUP list, meaning he is guaranteed to play at some point within the first four weeks of the season. He has also been medically cleared and is participating fully in football activities. Now, it comes down to whether the Giants believe he is ready to make his return immediately or prefer to ease him back in.
Malik Nabers’ 2025 season ended after just four games when he suffered ACL and meniscus tears against the Kansas City Chiefs. He subsequently underwent several surgeries during the offseason to repair the damage.
Nabers returned to practice at the beginning of training camp in July and steadily increased his workload. After taking part in most practices, he recently became a full participant as Week 1 approached.
The star receiver had 1,204 yards and seven touchdowns in 15 games as a rookie in 2024. He was unable to build on that performance because of the injury, but the 2026 season gives him another chance to show that he’s one of the NFL’s top receivers.
How to watch the Giants vs. Cowboys Week 1 game?
The New York Giants and Dallas Cowboys will kick off the 2026 season by renewing their historical NFC East rivalry.
For the Giants, this game marks the beginning of the John Harbaugh era, and the team will be hoping to give its new head coach a win in his first game. The Cowboys, meanwhile, are looking to turn the page after a 7-9-1 campaign in Brian Schottenheimer’s first year at the helm.
A Week 1 win would give either team an early advantage in the NFC East.
The game begins at 8:20 p.m. ET Sunday at MetLife Stadium and will be broadcast nationally on NBC. Mike Tirico, Cris Collinsworth, and Melissa Stark will handle the broadcast duties.
Game info:
Date and time: Sunday, Sept. 13 at 8:20 p.m. ET
Location: MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey
TV: NBC
Announcers: Mike Tirico (play-by-play), Cris Collinsworth (analyst), Melissa Stark (sideline reporter)
Live streaming: Peacock, FuboTV
Edited by Habib Timileyin
