Football

NY Giants’ Rookie Wide Receiver Malik Nabers Steps Back from Next Game Due to Concussion

Malik Nabers, NY Giants’ Promising Rookie Wide Receiver, to Miss Second Straight Game

New York Giants’ rookie wide receiver, Malik Nabers, will not participate in the upcoming Sunday night match against the Cincinnati Bengals. The decision follows a concussion that Nabers suffered, according to the Giants’ coach, Brian Daboll. This injury will sideline Nabers for his second consecutive game, following his absence in the previous 29-20 victory over the Seattle Seahawks.

Continued Recovery for Nabers

Despite some activity on the field over the last two days, Daboll confirms that Nabers is still under the concussion protocol and has not trained this week. The coach declined to discuss Nabers’ current symptoms, preferring to keep the information confidential. However, the rookie’s recovery is on track, with a plan of taking it one day at a time.

Slayton Steps Up

With Nabers out, Darius Slayton will continue to hold the No. 1 receiver position for the second game in a row. Slayton’s last performance saw him successfully catch eight passes, covering 122 yards and scoring one touchdown in Seattle. The Giants’ team could also be down another player, running back Devin Singletary, who has been limited in his practice this week.

Next Steps for Nabers

Nabers’ chances of returning seemed bright earlier in the week, with him having done some light running with a trainer. However, the progress seemed to stall when Daboll revealed the player was still under the concussion protocol. Daboll emphasized the seriousness of the situation, refraining from discussing the details of the concussion protocol.

Despite being unable to participate in full-contact drills, the young athlete was seen running sprints and catching passes during a non-contact training drill on Friday. However, as per the league’s concussion protocol, he needed clearance from a team physician and an independent neurologist, which he did not obtain in time.

Looking Ahead

The focus now shifts to getting Nabers ready for the next game, wherein Giants will be up against former teammate Saquon Barkley and the Philadelphia Eagles. There were concerns earlier in the week when Nabers attended a Travis Scott concert. Daboll refrained from commenting on the matter, only confirming that the rookie did not break any team rules.

The injury occurred when Nabers attempted a catch during the game against the Dallas Cowboys. His face hit the ground, after which he received immediate medical attention. The incident has led to his absence from the field for at least two games now.

Despite his absence, Nabers’ start to the season has been record-breaking. He became the first NFL player to record at least 25 catches and three touchdowns within his initial four NFL games. The LSU graduate has managed to make 35 catches, covering 386 yards and scoring three touchdowns this season.

Jamal Thompson is a versatile sports writer with a passion for covering the intersection of sports and culture. From the gridiron to the hardwood, Jamal’s work explores not just the game, but the broader societal impacts of sports. His insightful commentary and engaging storytelling have made him a key voice at 21Sports.com. When he’s not writing, Jamal can be found mentoring young athletes in his community.

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