New York Jets cornerback Sauce Gardner praised New York Giants rookie wide receiver Malik Nabers after their teams’ joint practice on Wednesday.
Gardner compared Nabers to notable LSU alumni, saying, “He remind me of like an LSU receiver. Kind of a little (Cincinnati Bengals wideout) Ja’Marr Chase, a little bit. A little (Minnesota Vikings receiver) Justin Jefferson.”
Gardner noted Nabers’ skill in making sharp breaks and expressed optimism about his potential, stating that the Giants’ first-round pick is expected to be a “pretty good player.” However, Gardner emphasized that he did not intend to directly compare Nabers to Chase or Jefferson.
The Giants hope Nabers can achieve success similar to Chase and Jefferson, who have amassed three second-team All-Pro selections, one first-team All-Pro nod, six Pro Bowl appearances, an Offensive Rookie of the Year award (Chase), and an Offensive Player of the Year honor (Jefferson).
In the Giants’ first two preseason games, Nabers has caught four of his six targets for 54 yards. These figures lead the team’s wide receivers in receptions and targets, and he is second in receiving yards, trailing only Darius Slayton by five yards.
At 21 years old, Nabers is anticipated to be the Giants’ top receiving option for the regular season after being drafted sixth overall in 2024.