The New York Giants vs the LA Chargers was a closely fought contest, ending with a 21-18 win for the Giants. However, the victory came with a devastating blow, as wide receiver Malik Nabers was forced out of the game after suffering a serious knee injury.
The moment took the air out of the stadium, overshadowing what should have been a statement win. The injury occurred in the second quarter. On a free play after the Chargers jumped offside, Jaxson Dart targeted Nabers on a deep attempt.
As Nabers came down from his leap, his right knee gave out. He was quickly helped by trainers and had to be carted off the field. He did not return to the game, and early indications point to a torn ACL. An MRI is expected to confirm the extent of the damage.
This setback adds his name to a worrying trend of serious injuries tied to MetLife Stadium’s artificial turf. Since 2020, several players have gone down with Achilles or ACL tears on the surface. As per Yahoo Fantasy Sports, seven players have suffered major ACL and Achilles injuries at the stadium.
Nick Bosa and Solomon Thomas both suffered ACL tears in 2020. Jabrill Peppers was lost in 2021. Wan’Dale Robinson, Sterling Shepard, and Kyle Fuller all went down in 2022. In 2023, Aaron Rodgers tore his Achilles. Now, Nabers potentially joins that grim list.
Notable ACL and Achilles tears suffered on MetLife Stadium’s turf since 2020:
· Nick Bosa (2020)
· Solomon Thomas (2020)
· Jabrill Peppers (2021)
· Wan’Dale Robinson (2022)
· Sterling Shepard (2022)
· Kyle Fuller (2022)
· Aaron Rodgers (2023)
· Potentially Malik Nabers (2025)— Yahoo Fantasy Sports (@YahooFantasy) September 28, 2025
The pattern has drawn heavy criticism of MetLife’s playing conditions. Many believe the turf makes players more vulnerable to non-contact injuries, particularly those involving the knee or Achilles. Every new incident fuels calls for changes in the type of surface used.
Malik Nabers’ teammate Jaxson Dart Had an Impactful Outing
With Malik Nabers sidelined due to injury, the Giants needed someone else to step up. Rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart delivered, leading New York to its first win of the season.
The victory came as an upset over the previously undefeated Chargers, and it brought new life to a team desperate for momentum. Dart made an immediate impact. He opened the game with confidence and capped the Giants’ first drive with a 15-yard rushing touchdown.
His performance balanced both passing and running. He completed 13 of 20 passes for 111 yards and a touchdown, while also adding 54 yards and another score on the ground.
The Giants had named Dart their starter only days before the game, moving on from Russell Wilson after a rough beginning to the season. The decision looked justified, as Dart’s poise against a tough opponent impressed both teammates and coaches.
Read More:
Heisman Trophy Winner Nearly Went to Stanford, Not Florida State, in Shocking Revelation
Jaxson Dart Misses Top 10 on Daniel Jeremiah’s Board, Still Projected to Giants in 2025 NFL Draft
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in football, basketball, and more!
