Giants Injuries: Nabers, Burns Face Challenges

In a 28-6 defeat to the Rams, Giants wide receiver Malik Nabers dislocated his shoulder and returned it to the socket, while defensive back Brian Burns sprained his ankle. Both players face uncertain recovery timelines, raising concerns for the team's upcoming schedule.

By Felo News Desk · Published Tue, 22 Sep 2026 07:56:20 GMT

The New York Giants’ Monday night loss to the Los Angeles Rams was marred by a string of injuries that could shape the remainder of the season. Wide receiver Malik Nabers suffered a dislocated shoulder early in the first quarter, while defensive back Brian Burns rolled his left ankle in the final minutes of the fourth. Both players are now on the sidelines, with Nabers heading to an MRI and Burns entering a recovery protocol that could keep him out of the next game.

Injury Details and Immediate Impact

Nabers, who had returned from a season‑ending ACL tear in 2025, was involved in a play that saw him crash to the ground after an incomplete pass from Jameis Winston. The collision caused his shoulder to dislocate, but the player managed to pop it back into place during the first quarter. “I pulled it back in and started feeling a little bit of strength back,” Nabers told reporters. “We were without Jaxson, and I didn’t want to give the team another loss, so I went back in.”

Despite his quick return, Nabers was unable to contribute significantly in the game, finishing with a single catch for one yard. The injury now requires an MRI to assess ligament damage and determine a recovery timeline. If the shoulder is severely compromised, Nabers could miss several weeks of play.

Burns, on the other hand, was playing with the score out of hand when he rolled his ankle in the closing minutes. He left the field without putting weight on the foot, assisted by teammates, and later reported that the pain “wasn’t as bad as it felt.” He described the injury as a low‑ankle sprain, which he hopes is not a severe ligament tear. Burns emphasized that the swelling and inflammation are the main concerns, and he is already following a protocol of ice, compression, and elevation.

Team Context and Roster Implications

The Giants’ loss to the Rams was their third straight defeat, and the injuries add another layer of uncertainty to an already fragile roster. Quarterback Jaxson Dart was also sidelined with a likely sprained MCL, leaving the team without a clear offensive leader. With the Rams’ defensive line proving too strong, the Giants’ offense struggled to find rhythm, and the defensive backfield was left exposed.

Both Nabers and Burns are key pieces in the Giants’ depth chart. Nabers is expected to be a primary target for the rookie quarterback, while Burns is a starting cornerback who has been a defensive cornerstone since being drafted in 2021. Their absences force the coaching staff to rely on less experienced players, potentially altering game plans and play calling.

Recovery Paths and Upcoming Games

For Nabers, the MRI will be the first step in determining whether a surgical or conservative approach is needed. If the shoulder’s labrum is torn, surgery could take 6–8 weeks, while a minor sprain might allow a return in 4–6 weeks with physical therapy.

Burns’ recovery is expected to follow a standard ankle sprain protocol: initial rest and ice, followed by compression and elevation, and eventually gradual weight bearing. He has expressed confidence that the injury is not severe, but the team will monitor his progress closely. If Burns can return by the next game against the Tennessee Titans, he will likely play a reduced role to protect his ankle.

What’s Next for the Giants?

The Giants have a cross‑country red‑eye flight to Tennessee and a short turnaround before the Titans game. Head coach Joe Judge has emphasized the importance of depth and adaptability. “We’ll keep working on the game plan and make sure the players who are healthy are ready to step in,” Judge said.

In the meantime, the team will focus on rehabilitation for both players while preparing for the next opponent. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how the injuries affect the Giants’ performance in the coming weeks.

As the season progresses, the Giants’ ability to manage injuries and maintain depth will be crucial to their competitiveness in the NFC East.

Key facts

Malik Nabers dislocated his shoulder and will undergo an MRI.
Brian Burns sprained his ankle, entering a recovery protocol.
Both injuries occurred during a 28-6 loss to the Rams.
The Giants are already missing quarterback Jaxson Dart with an MCL sprain.
Recovery timelines could keep Nabers and Burns out of the next game.
The team must rely on depth as they head to Tennessee for a quick turnaround.

Why it matters

The injuries to key players like Nabers and Burns could derail the Giants’ offensive and defensive balance, impacting their chances of turning around a losing streak and influencing playoff positioning.

Frequently asked questions

What is the expected recovery time for Malik Nabers’ shoulder injury?

If the MRI shows a minor sprain, Nabers could return in 4–6 weeks; a more severe tear might require 6–8 weeks of recovery, possibly involving surgery.