Malik Nabers, the New York Giants' rookie receiver, is anticipated to play in the team's crucial Week 17 matchup against the Indianapolis Colts despite being listed as questionable due to a toe injury. After missing practice earlier in the week, Nabers was limited on Friday but indicated that his status would be a game-day decision. Should he take the field, he will be a focal point in the Giants' passing attack as he aims to achieve significant rookie milestones.
Nabers is on the verge of his first 1,000-yard season, needing just 69 yards to reach that mark, which would also mark the 26th occurrence of such a season in Giants history. This achievement comes despite Nabers missing three games this season. Additionally, he holds the record for most receptions by a Giants rookie with 91, surpassing the previous record held by Odell Beckham Jr. and Saquon Barkley. He is also in pursuit of the league's rookie reception record, currently held by Puka Nacua with 105 receptions. Nabers needs nine more catches to tie that record, while also contending with Raiders tight end Brock Bowers, who has 101 receptions.
As Nabers prepares for the game, the Giants will be without several key players, including center John Michael Schmitz, linebacker Micah McFadden, and cornerback Greg Stroman Jr., all declared inactive. Greg Van Roten is expected to step in at center, while Dyontae Johnson, recently activated from IR, may see some action with McFadden out. The only other Giant with an uncertain status is cornerback Dee Williams, who is also dealing with a toe injury.
On the Colts' side, starting quarterback Anthony Richardson has been ruled out, with veteran Joe Flacco slated to start as the team fights to keep their playoff aspirations alive. As the game approaches, both teams are finalizing their inactive lists, and fans are eager to see how Nabers' performance could impact the Giants' season.
