Harbaugh Calms Giants WR Nabers After Draft Comments

Following comments made during the NFL draft, New York Giants coach John Harbaugh met with wide receiver Malik Nabers for a discussion the morning after the draft's first round. Nabers had publicly voiced surprise at the team selecting linebacker Arvell Reese with their fifth pick and then passing on safety Caleb Downs twice, with Downs eventually being drafted by the rival Dallas Cowboys.

Nabers questioned the strategic fit of Reese, noting the team had drafted a similar position player the previous year. His perplexity grew when the Giants selected offensive lineman Francis Mauigoa instead of Downs with the tenth pick. Nabers indicated he would have preferred Downs on his own team rather than facing him twice a season.

Coach Harbaugh stated he had a "great conversation" with Nabers, explaining the team's plan to utilize Reese as an inside linebacker, not an edge rusher as Nabers initially surmised. Harbaugh expressed appreciation for Nabers' candidness, emphasizing the importance of players speaking their minds if their hearts are in the right place and they genuinely care about the team's best interests.

Harbaugh noted that Nabers was among the first to welcome Reese and his family, demonstrating support for his new teammate. Nabers also posted on social media to clarify his stance, expressing excitement for Reese joining the team and emphasizing that he would never diminish a teammate's significant moment.