New York Giants wide receiver Malik Nabers is facing a longer recovery timeline after suffering a torn right ACL earlier this season, a setback that is expected to keep him out at the start of the upcoming year.
Nabers sustained the injury in Week 4 and underwent surgery in late October to repair the damaged ligament. More than two months later, he is still using a crutch, an indicator that full knee function has not yet returned.
Dr. David Chao, Pro Football Doc, said Nabers’ continued use of a crutch suggests a more complex surgical repair than a standard ACL reconstruction.
“The reason he’s using a crutch is because he doesn’t yet have full motion in that knee, which leads me to believe he had a meniscus repair with suturing rather than a trim,” Chao said. “That points to a more prolonged recovery.”
Chao explained that regaining full range of motion is typically the first major milestone following ACL surgery.
“Normally, the first goal after ACL surgery is to regain full range of motion, ideally by six weeks,” Chao said. “Malik Nabers is now eight weeks out and still does not have full range of motion, likely because of the meniscus repair.”
While Chao emphasized that there is no indication the surgery was unsuccessful, the lack of progress alters expectations for Nabers’ return.
“I’m not saying there’s anything wrong with the surgery,” Chao said. “But what does that mean for his timeline? Everything gets pushed back. Malik Nabers will not be ready for the start of the season — book it.”
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