Malik Nabers dazzles at Giants training camp on July 25, but the team is cautious with his toe injury. Get the latest on Nabers, Dexter Lawrence, and more.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
Day one of Giants training camp delivered the fireworks fans were hoping for, and it was no surprise who lit the fuse. Malik Nabers, fresh off a spectacular 1,200-yard rookie campaign, looked every bit the part of a top-ten NFL receiver, making highlight-reel touchdown grabs and creating constant separation. But beneath the explosive plays lies a note of caution, as the team carefully manages a lingering toe injury, creating the central drama of camp: how to unleash a superstar while ensuring he's ready for the long haul.
The Giants have added $3 million in incentives to All-Pro defensive lineman Dexter Lawrence's contract for the 2025 season.
Malik Nabers is the undisputed engine of the Giants' offense, and the team knows it. Despite a nagging toe issue, he was the star of Friday's practice, consistently winning his one-on-one battles. The coaching staff, led by Brian Daboll, is implementing a 'quality over quantity' approach, limiting his reps to maximize his impact and keep him fresh. This strategy has Nabers' full support; the receiver recently praised the front office's offseason moves, expressing his confidence in the team's direction. The goal is clear: get the best version of Nabers to Week 1, even if it means holding him back slightly in July.
While Nabers stole the headlines, the future of the franchise was also on full display. Rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart showed impressive poise and accuracy, looking comfortable running the offense in team drills. But the play of the day belonged to late-round tight end Thomas Fidone, who made a jaw-dropping one-handed grab that had the sidelines buzzing. Fidone's athleticism is turning heads and could be his ticket to a spot on the 53-man roster. With other young players like receiver Jalin Hyatt and running back Dante Miller also making notable plays, the youth movement is providing a major spark.
The excitement of camp was tempered by some significant roster news. The Giants placed star left tackle Andrew Thomas (foot) and running back Eric Gray (knee) on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list to start camp. Their absence creates immediate questions about depth and their availability for Week 1. While that news is concerning, the front office sent a strong message of stability by rewarding another cornerstone. All-Pro defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence received an additional $3 million in contract incentives, a clear sign of the franchise's commitment to its leaders. The move, which isn't tied to performance stats, underscores Lawrence's value as the heart of the defense.
As camp continues, all eyes will remain on the injury report. The health of Nabers and the timeline for Andrew Thomas's return will dominate the conversation. But the flashes from rookies like Jaxson Dart and Thomas Fidone provide a tantalizing glimpse of the team's future. The Giants are building something, balancing the health of their current stars with the exciting potential of their next generation. The coming weeks will be crucial in seeing how those pieces come together before the preseason begins.
