Malik Nabers, the Giants’ promising wide receiver, believes he possesses a unique ability that allows him to outmaneuver defenders on the field. Drawing inspiration from Spider-Man, Nabers likens his skill to a “spider separation,” which sets him apart from others.
“I have that little Spider-Man talent,” Nabers shared during a visit to the Giants facility, accompanied by his family and agent. “When I sense someone nearby on the field, I instinctively know how close I am to the out-of-bounds line. I have a knack for reacting to the ball with late hands and understanding the positioning of defenders on my route.”
If all goes according to plan for the Giants, Malik Nabers, a product of LSU, will emerge as the focal point of an upgraded offense, making a significant impact in the passing game and providing Daniel Jones with an immediate and appealing target.
Never before have the Giants invested a draft pick as high as No. 6 overall on a wide receiver. The highest pick previously used on a receiver was Ike Hilliard, selected seventh overall in 1997.
With his lofty draft status comes a weighty responsibility. Nabers, who won’t turn 21 until July 28, just as his first NFL training camp kicks off, is eagerly anticipated by the Giants. They are eager to witness his on-field prowess firsthand.
Nabers possesses a unique ability, perhaps more so than any other player in this draft, to evade coverage by defensive backs. “It’s just second nature,” Nabers remarked. “It’s about me being an athlete, being a dog, always being the reliable target for the quarterback. I have confidence in myself and the quarterback – when the ball’s in the quarterback’s hands, Malik will be open.”
Nabers’ standout quality isn’t necessarily his size or catch radius, but rather his competitive nature and ability to consistently get open on the field, regardless of the circumstances. Despite not standing out in terms of physical attributes, Nabers’ exceptional speed (4.35 in the 40-yard dash) is complemented by his relentless determination.
The Giants were convinced that Nabers was not only worthy of their first-round pick but also of passing up quarterback J.J. McCarthy in the process. General manager Joe Schoen emphasized Nabers’ toughness and competitiveness, traits that he believes are crucial for success at the wide receiver position.
“In that position, toughness is key,” Schoen remarked. “Some of the best receivers I’ve encountered possess that competitive edge. While there may be numerous receivers with similar physical attributes, what sets them apart is their grit, toughness, and tenacity. These are qualities that can’t be coached or taught, and I believe Nabers exemplifies them best.”
The legacy of LSU wide receivers in the NFL is undeniable, with notable names like Jarvis Landry, Odell Beckham Jr., Justin Jefferson, and Ja’Marr Chase transitioning from Baton Rouge to NFL stardom.
Nabers acknowledges the comparisons, particularly to Ja’Marr Chase, the standout wide receiver for the Bengals. “We have a similar build, and I receive a lot of comparisons,” Nabers noted, before emphasizing his desire to carve out his own path. “But ultimately, I’m focused on being the best version of myself, striving to be the best Malik Nabers I can possibly be.”
Since receiving the call from the Giants, Nabers has been in contact with Beckham and Chase.
While Beckham didn’t offer specific feedback about the Giants, the overarching message from both Beckham and Chase was clear: Stay true to yourself.
Nabers also had a conversation with his new quarterback, Daniel Jones, who expressed his excitement about Nabers joining the team. Jones told him, “I’m happy that you’re here, we’re gonna hit the ground running.”
Regarding Nabers’ arrest in February 2023 on a gun charge, the Giants state that they conducted a thorough investigation into the matter. Nabers, who was 19 years old at the time, was on Bourbon Street when New Orleans police officers noticed an “L-shaped object” in his front pants pocket.
When Nabers informed the officers that he did not possess a permit for the gun, he was subsequently arrested.
Three months later, the charge against Nabers was dismissed, with the New Orleans District Attorney’s office citing his status as a college student with no prior criminal record and his voluntary surrender of the gun.
The Giants have confirmed that they viewed video evidence of the arrest as part of their extensive background investigation into Nabers and other draft prospects.
“We have a thorough process in place for evaluating the background of these players,” stated Schoen. “We utilize various resources, including on-campus and off-campus investigations, to gather information. Ultimately, we are confident in the players we select.”