A few months can change everything in sports, as Malik Nabers demonstrates this season. Following an April surgery for a torn ACL and meniscus, doubts surrounded his health for the 2026 season. Now, he has emerged as a top-five wide receiver, leading the New York Giants toward a potential division title despite a tumultuous quarterback situation.

In October, Nabers showcased his skills with impressive performances:

• Week 4: 6 catches, 112 yards, 1 touchdown (with Jameis Winston at QB)
• Week 5: 11 catches, 121 yards, 1 touchdown (with Jameis Winston at QB)
• Week 6: 12 catches, 165 yards (with Winston and J.J. McCarthy at QB)
• Week 7: 7 catches, 111 yards (with McCarthy at QB)

He became the first player since Cris Carter in 1999 to record four consecutive 100-yard receiving games with non-Week 1 starting QBs. If he achieves another 100-yard game against Philadelphia, he will set a record for five straight games under similar circumstances.

Nabers has matched the total number of 100-yard games by all other NFL players combined with backup QBs this year and is the only player in NFL history to have a 100-yard game with five different starting QBs within his first 30 games.

Comparisons to legends like DeAndre Hopkins and Larry Fitzgerald arise as he earns a reputation for being "QB proof." Hopkins had a remarkable career, recording 100-yard games with multiple backup quarterbacks, while Fitzgerald also faced similar challenges.

With the Giants sitting at 3-1-1 since Jaxson Dart's injury, Nabers’ contributions are crucial. He is currently a strong contender for the NFL Comeback Player of the Year and is due for a massive contract extension, potentially resetting the market for wide receivers. As the season progresses, the football world watches closely to see if Nabers can solidify his place among the elite.