Malik Nabers to Make Final Call on Status for Giants Opener Against Cowboys

Wide receiver Malik Nabers said Thursday the New York Giants are leaving the decision on whether he plays Sunday night up to him.

New York Giants wide receiver Malik Nabers will determine his own availability for the Sunday night season opener against the Dallas Cowboys. The 23-year-old standout is recovering from a torn ACL suffered in Week 4 of last season, which required surgery in October and a follow-up procedure earlier this year to remove scar tissue. Nabers has been a full participant in practice this week and returned to live drills recently, but he told reporters on Thursday that he has not yet made a final decision on his return.

Coach John Harbaugh declined to confirm Nabers' status during a Wednesday press conference, though he noted the receiver "looked good" for two consecutive days. Nabers, a one-time Pro Bowl selection, sat out spring activities but joined the team for the start of training camp. He stated that if he does play, he will not be on a pitch count or limited snaps, asserting that he would lead any conversation regarding his usage to protect his career and body.

Nabers is entering his third NFL season and will be eligible for a contract extension following this year. While he expressed confidence in his knee and his ability to move during recent testing, he emphasized the importance of not putting his long-term career at risk for a single game. Following the matchup against the rival Cowboys, the Giants are scheduled to play the Los Angeles Rams on Monday night in Week 2.