EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — For the New York Giants, Sunday’s clash at MetLife Stadium was supposed to be about beginnings. Rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart made his highly anticipated debut and delivered a memorable performance, guiding Big Blue to their first victory of the season — a stunning 21–18 upset over the previously undefeated Los Angeles Chargers.
Yet, the night that could have signaled a fresh start was clouded by the loss of star wide receiver Malik Nabers, who went down in the second quarter with what team officials fear is a torn ACL.
Dart Delivers in First Start
Dart, the Ole Miss product pressed into the starting role, played with poise beyond his years. He extended drives with his mobility, connected on key throws in tight windows, and looked comfortable orchestrating the Giants’ offense against a formidable Chargers defense. His energy appeared to galvanize a team desperate for momentum, with the defense answering the call with multiple crucial stops to seal the win.
For a franchise that has struggled to find stability under center, Dart’s debut offered a glimpse of hope, not only in the form of a win, but in the possibility of a long-term solution at quarterback.
A Crushing Blow: Nabers Injured
The optimism was tempered in the second quarter, when Nabers crumpled to the turf while attempting to haul in a deep sideline pass from Dart. His right knee appeared to buckle before he could leap, and the scene quickly turned somber as teammates surrounded him and the medical cart was summoned.
The 22-year-old phenom, who set a Giants rookie record last season with 109 receptions for 1,204 yards and seven touchdowns, had already tallied 251 yards in the first three games of this year. He added two more catches for 20 yards Sunday before his departure.
At halftime, the Giants downgraded Nabers to out, and reports indicate the team fears a torn ACL. He is scheduled for an MRI on Monday to confirm the severity of the injury.
MT’s Analysis
For the Giants, Sunday underscored both promise and peril. Dart’s performance should not be underestimated; he played with confidence, composure, and creativity, the very traits the organization has long sought in a quarterback. If this is a preview of what he can become, the Giants may have finally found their leader for the next era.
But losing Nabers, arguably the most dynamic offensive weapon on the roster, could derail that momentum. His chemistry with Dart was supposed to be the foundation of the Giants’ offensive rebuild. Without him, the team faces a glaring question: can Dart continue to develop and thrive without his top target, or will the loss of Nabers stall progress just as it began?
Sunday’s victory was a statement win, but the MRI results on Nabers may ultimately define whether this was a turning point in the season or just a bittersweet footnote.
By The Midtown Times Staff | Published Sep. 28, 2025
