The New York Giants have a Malik Nabers problem, and it might force them to trade him before next season begins. With the second-year receiver’s knee recovery raising red flags, the organization could be staring at a big offensive void heading into 2026. The uncertainty has some prominent voices floating a bold solution.
Tiki Barber is a retired running back who spent 10 seasons with the Giants and remains one of the franchise’s all-time greats. WFAN analyst Evan Roberts joined Barber during Tuesday’s conversation.
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They discussed the possibility of New York trading for Miami Dolphins wide receiver Jaylen Waddle. Roberts asked Barber if the Giants need to shell out draft capital for Waddle.
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Barber wasn’t entirely sold on giving up significant draft capital to land him. His reasoning came down to what New York’s new defensive coordinator needs.
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“I don’t think you need that, unless Dennard Wilson wants a safety,” Barber said, via WFAN Sports Radio. “He was a defensive back coach, so if he wants an impact third-level player, then you could see that happening.”
The Giants hired Dennard Wilson to be their defensive coordinator on Jan. 25. He previously worked as a defensive backs coach, and Barber believes it matters.
Waddle is under contract through 2028 on a deal worth $84,750,000, according to Spotrac. He has posted three consecutive 1,000-yard seasons prior to signing an extension in May 2024. However, he has fallen short of that mark in each of the last two seasons.
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Giants should aggressively pursue Jaylen Waddle as insurance over Malik Nabers
Evan Roberts shared his thoughts on the scenario after Tiki Barber offered his.
“Why I would be aggressive in trading for Jalen Waddle if I’m the New York Giants, is I am skeptical about the health of Malik Nabers,” Roberts said.
“It feels like that injury was more severe than maybe we realized at the time. Jalen Waddle isn’t just here as a one-two punch; eventually, it’ll be that case. But I also think it protects you in case Malik Nabers is not here for the first five or six weeks of the season.”
Nabers suffered a torn ACL, torn meniscus, partially torn labrum and turf toe in Week 4 of the 2025 season. He confirmed in February that his rehab has been “phenomenal;” however, no return date has been set.
With the Giants owning the No. 5 pick, how they approach the draft may depend on where Nabers stands come April.
Edited by Victor Ramon Galvez