Nabers returns to work in limited Giants practice as knee soreness lingers

The New York Giants got a partial boost in practice as wide receiver Malik Nabers returned to the field on Thursday after being kept out the previous day with knee soreness, according to Yahoo Sports’ report from the team’s media availability. Nabers, who missed Wednesday’s work, was listed as a limited participant on Thursday as the Giants moved their focus to their Week 5 matchup with the Washington Commanders.

The timeline matters because a short week can tighten the margin for teams trying to get key starters back to full speed. In Wednesday’s availability, Nabers was described as noncommittal about his status for the game, a sign the knee issue was still being evaluated day to day rather than treated as a routine maintenance matter. Thursday’s move back to a limited role suggests the Giants viewed the next-step as possible, but it did not remove uncertainty.

Nabers’ status also carries weight for New York’s passing plans. As the team continues to prepare for Washington, his ability to practice normally or remain limited affects the Giants’ workload management for route timing, conditioning, and chemistry. Even when players appear on the field, being restricted in practice often shapes what coaches can safely ask them to do at full tempo.

The report also said Andrew Thomas was limited during Thursday’s session. Thomas, New York’s offensive tackle, is a central part of the Giants’ protection and run-blocking identity. Like Nabers, Thomas’ limited participation indicates the Giants are taking a cautious approach, balancing preparation with the risk of aggravating an issue ahead of a game that can draw heavier attention to the line play.

For the Giants, the immediate priority is simple: confirm whether Nabers and Thomas can progress beyond limited participation before the active game plan locks in. In practice weeks, the difference between full participation and a continued limited tag can determine how much rehearsal the coaching staff is willing to add, especially on high-contact or high-demand reps.

For the Commanders, New York’s day-to-day availability creates an evolving picture for what Washington can expect. If the Giants are able to keep Nabers and Thomas on the field, even in limited form, it may narrow the Commanders’ margin to exploit matchups. If either player remains limited or is held out, it would force New York to adjust its offensive and protection packages.