Jets All-Pro sees Giants rookie Malik Nabers as next in LSU WR pipeline

LSU has recently produced elite NFL wide receivers, including Minnesota's Justin Jefferson and Cincinnati's Ja'Marr Chase. New York Giants rookie Malik Nabers could follow in their footsteps.

After a joint practice with the Giants on Wednesday, New York Jets star cornerback Sauce Gardner said Nabers — a first-team All-American in his final season at LSU — reminded him of Chase and Jefferson (h/t: SNY-TV in New York).

In two seasons with the Jets, two-time first-team All-Pro Gardner has lined up against some of the best pass-catchers in the league. The Giants should take the compliment as an excellent sign.

Chase and Jefferson have combined for six Pro Bowl appearances and three second-team All-Pro nods. Chase won 2021 Offensive Rookie of the Year, while Jefferson captured 2022 Offensive Player of the Year. Only time will tell if Nabers has a similar career, but the sixth overall pick of the 2024 NFL Draft has flashed potential in preseason.

In his second preseason game — against the Houston Texans on Saturday — Nabers made a spectacular 21-yard catch along the sideline. He finished with four receptions for 54 yards in the 28-10 loss. Pro Football Focus gave him the highest grade (82.7) among rookie wideouts in Week 2 of preseason.

The Giants need better quarterback play to maximize Nabers' talent. Starter Daniel Jones hasn't inspired confidence in the preseason, completing 11-of-18 passes for 138 yards, zero touchdowns and two interceptions in one game. He has also posted a below-average 45.4 passer rating.

Whether Jones turns it around or not, the Giants should feel happy about Nabers' progress thus far. The 21-year-old already looks like a potential No. 1 option.