“Malik Nabers just took a shot.” That’s how NFL insider Art Stapleton kicked off the latest drama surrounding the New York Giants rookie WR. Nabers just pulled off a stunning 28-yard catch, but what followed was anything but smooth. New York fans are on edge as the wideout heads to the blue tent. What’s going down with the star rookie?

Stapleton’s tweet didn’t hold back, as he wrote, “Malik Nabers just took a shot from Frankie Luvu after a 28-yard catch and run. Now they’re buzzing down: Nabers is coming out and going into the blue tent to be checked for a concussion.” Fresh off a 28-yard catch and run, Nabers found himself on the receiving end of a brutal hit by Washington Commanders’ LB Frankie Luvu. It was a scene that had Giants fans collectively holding their breath. To make matters worse, NFL reporter Connor Hughes chimed in with confirmation, “Tremendous first-down grab by Malik Nabers. He then got absolutely crushed — just a HUGE hit. He’s coming off the field to get checked out. Luvu got him.”

This wasn’t how the LSU Tigers’ standout imagined his Sunday would go. Cleared to play despite dealing with a knee injury earlier in the week, the 21-year-old was given the green light by HC Brian Daboll. “No concern,” Daboll asserted confidently on Friday, adding that Nabers would be “good to go” after participating fully in practice. Everything seemed to be lining up perfectly for the No. 6 pick. And it wasn’t just Nabers turning heads—Darius Slayton was also set to play after clearing concussion protocol. New York’s had some key players ruled out, but Nabers was expected to shine in his role as the team’s No. 1 WR.

The hype around Malik Nabers wasn’t just smoke. In his debut, the rookie grabbed five catches for 66 yards, instantly making his presence felt. The Giants weren’t holding back with their top pick as Daboll made it clear to “throw him the ball.” And boy, did they deliver. Nabers saw seven targets in the opener against Minnesota, including four straight plays aimed his way. He was locked in, ready to handle the pressure.

But now, after this vicious hit, all eyes are on Nabers’ status. It’s a tough blow for a player who’s already battled adversity this season—a knee issue that felt “a little tight” earlier in the week. Despite the bumps and bruises, Malik Nabers seems ready to handle whatever’s thrown at him. Whether it’s delivering on big plays or bouncing back from a hit like this one, he’s ready for the pressure. 

Big Blue’s new No. 1: Malik Nabers’ ready for the pressure 

Rocking the legendary No. 1 for New York? Yeah, that’s a pretty big deal. And when you realize that number once belonged to Ray Flaherty—the first jersey ever retired by the NFL—it hits a little harder. But this rookie’s not letting that weight settle too heavy on his shoulders. “I don’t want to overset my mind,” he asserted. His mindset’s all about keeping things cool and steady on-field, focusing on what he can do rather than what the number on his back symbolizes. Further, he said, “When you overdo yourself, you lose focus on what you actually can do.”

Still, it’s clear wearing No. 1 for Big Blue means something special to him. “In my heart, I do feel like I was the chosen one. I was born to do this… I’ve been blessed,” he added, sounding like a guy ready to take on the pressure—and whatever comes with it. And don’t expect him to engage in much trash talk either. While a lot’s running through his mind mid-game, he’s all about keeping it focused—unless someone starts chirping. “If somebody tells me something, I gotta respond, and I’m going to respond,” he alluded. But otherwise? He’s locked in.

As the Giants’ new No. 1, he’s ready to start a new chapter. Cool, calm, and ready to make his mark—no extra noise, just game.