Could Giants be without top star vs. Commanders in Week 5?

The Washington Commanders have a daunting schedule to open the 2026 season. Washington is the only NFL team that opens with two consecutive road games against divisional foes. The Commanders play their third NFC East game of the season in Week 5, when the New York Giants come to town. But the Giants could be without their top offensive player, wide receiver Malik Nabers.

In a recent appearance on the “John Keim Report” podcast, ESPN Giants reporter Jordan Raanan discussed when he believed Nabers could return. The Giants play the Commanders on Oct. 11.

Nabers suffered a torn ACL last September in a win over the Los Angeles Chargers. However, his recovery was complicated when he had to undergo a second surgery to clean up some scar tissue.

“They’re hoping, they’re praying, they’re crossing their fingers that Malik Nabers will be back for Week 1,” Raanan said. “They don’t know. Nobody knows. It’s a wait-and-see. Their offense isn’t the same without Malik Nabers. But even when he does come back, we have to remember he’s coming back from a serious injury. So, is he going to be himself right away? That’s a lot to ask.”

So, when does Raanan think Nabers can return?

“There’s not a ton of scenarios where I look at it and say, Malik Nabers is going to be back and playing as a No. 1 superstar receiver by then. Maybe that’s around the time we can expect him to start coming around if he starts practicing in early September; we’ll wait and see.”

Asked how the Giants’ receivers are without Nabers, Ranaan responded, “Ok.” Raanan did indicate the Giants are much better at tight end this season with the offseason addition of Isaiah Likely.

What does this mean for Washington? Raanan makes a great point. Even if Nabers is back by Week 5, will he be the same Malik Nabers as before his knee surgery? That may be expecting a lot, as the Giants will not rush Nabers’ return.

Nabers is New York’s top offensive weapon. Obviously, his absence would spell good news for the rebuilt Commanders’ defense, but the Giants will likely have a more run-oriented approach under new head coach John Harbaugh. So, whether Nabers plays or not, everything starts up front for Washington.

This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: Could Giants be without top star vs. Commanders in Week 5?