The New York Giants are confronting a significant challenge with Malik Nabers’ ongoing knee recovery, which has raised doubts ahead of the 2026 season. This injury concern has sparked discussions about whether the Giants might pursue a trade for Miami Dolphins wide receiver Jaylen Waddle to fill a potential long-term gap in their offense.
Tiki Barber, a former Giants running back and franchise legend, joined WFAN analyst Evan Roberts in a recent conversation on Tuesday to evaluate this situation, especially the potential cost of bringing Waddle to New York.
Weighing the Draft Capital Needed to Acquire Jaylen Waddle
During the discussion, Roberts inquired if the Giants would have to sacrifice high draft assets to obtain Waddle. Barber expressed reservations about trading substantial draft capital, noting that the decision might depend on the needs of the Giants’ newly hired defensive coordinator, Dennard Wilson.
Barber explained that Wilson, who was previously a defensive backs coach before his January 25 appointment as defensive coordinator, might influence the team’s trade priorities.
“I don’t think you need that, unless Dennard Wilson wants a safety,” Barber said, via WFAN Sports Radio. “He was a defensive back coach, so if he wants an impact third-level player, then you could see that happening.”
Waddle is under contract through 2028 with a deal valued at $84,750,000, according to Spotrac. Although he has recorded three consecutive 1,000-yard seasons before signing his recent extension in May 2024, Waddle has failed to reach this milestone in the past two campaigns.
Concerns for Malik Nabers’ Health Prompt Calls for Protective Measures
Roberts reacted to Barber’s views by emphasizing the urgency stemming from Nabers’ injury, which includes a torn ACL, torn meniscus, a partially torn labrum, and turf toe sustained in Week 4 of the 2025 season. Although Nabers reported in February that his rehabilitation was “phenomenal,” no return timeline has been established, leading to speculation regarding his availability early next season.
“Why I would be aggressive in trading for Jalen Waddle if I’m the New York Giants, is I am skeptical about the health of Malik Nabers,” Roberts said.
“It feels like that injury was more severe than maybe we realized at the time. Jalen Waddle isn’t just here as a one-two punch; eventually, it’ll be that case. But I also think it protects you in case Malik Nabers is not here for the first five or six weeks of the season.”
This ongoing uncertainty surrounding Nabers’ knee recovery is influencing how the Giants approach the 2026 NFL Draft, especially as the organization holds the No. 5 overall pick, which could be used to address pressing roster needs depending on Nabers’ readiness.
Impact of Potential Trade on Giants’ Offense and Upcoming Season
Should the Giants decide to pursue Waddle, the move would serve as insurance against Nabers’ uncertain recovery timeline and would help maintain offensive stability. While the trade price remains debated, the prospect of adding a veteran player like Waddle offers protection during what could be a vulnerable early stretch of the 2026 schedule.
The situation remains unresolved as the Giants balance defensive priorities introduced by Dennard Wilson and offensive concerns tied to Nabers’ condition. Fans and analysts alike will closely watch how the team strategizes its draft and trade decisions in the coming months.
