Russell Wilson’s camp efficiency has been hard to miss. He’s completed 10 of 12 camp days without an interception, distributing the ball across the depth chart. That spread matters, especially with Malik Nabers still sidelined. The rookie sophomore year WR left practice early last Wednesday (Aug. 6), calling it a load management decision. But he hasn’t returned since. He missed the preseason opener against Buffalo and the first of two joint sessions with the Jets. Head coach Brian Daboll says Nabers is “rehabbing and doing everything he can to get back.” But the Big Blue has not given any clear injury designation.

Wilson brushed off concerns over lost chemistry, noting they’ve already logged significant work together. “When he is out there and when he has been, we’ve been lights out,” Wilson said. “I think he’s been special for us.” In the meantime, he’s leaned on other targets, building timing that could help if depth becomes a factor during the season. “We want to facilitate the ball to the right guy at the right time,” Russ said.

Still, every missed rep from Nabers shifts more attention toward how long the Giants can treat this as routine maintenance rather than a setback.

The Giants are working with different personnel groups and building chemistry between quarterbacks and receivers. Some offensive players are dealing with minor injuries as the team weighs the need for preparation with an eye to player health, and that’s allowed others to step up and show what they might do during this evaluation period.

What’s interesting about this situation is the timing and the impact on the team. Malik Nabers hasn’t practiced in any of the Giants’ joint sessions with the Jets. “WR Jalin Hyatt, G Evan Neal and CB Dru Phillips will return to practice, per Brian Daboll,” ESPN NYG beat reporter Jordan Raanan relayed on the morning of August 13. Adding: “Still no Malik Nabers.”

He has also missed valuable time to build chemistry with Russell Wilson against live competition. The toe injury isn’t new. It’s been an ongoing issue that could require surgery down the line. But Nabers said he doesn’t plan to have any procedures at this time.

The Giants are being deliberate and cautious with Nabers… Especially since he’s such a big part of their offense. Last season, he was their top receiver with 109 catches for 1,204 yards and 7 touchdowns. For a rookie, these numbers say that, ‘Ok, the boy’s got a high ceiling’. But for him to achieve that ceiling, extra care and precaution have to be the gameplay.

He posted those numbers on the stat sheet despite dealing with inconsistent quarterback play. His absence from practice is a big void. Russell Wilson himself even said, “When Malik Nabers isn’t on the field, the Giants offense can’t move the ball.” But now, there are other things Russell is focusing on, other than the absent WR.

Russell Wilson’s connection with rising star Beaux Collins

While Nabers works through his injury management protocol, an unexpected storyline has developed out of Giants camp. Undrafted rookie wide receiver Beaux Collins has taken advantage of his opportunity to work with the first team. He has formed a strong bond with Russell Wilson during joint practices. The connection between the veteran quarterback and the Notre Dame product has been one of the best of camp.

Tuesday’s joint practice (August 12) with the Jets was a perfect example. Russell Wilson did hit Beaux Collins twice during early 7-on-7 drills. According to Russell Wilson’s recent Instagram story, he was seen sporting his number 3 jersey, looking great. He drops a perfect pass, and then there’s a backup wide receiver, Beaux Collins, in number 8, making a fantastic catch. The fact that they celebrate so afterward just speaks to the incredible teamwork and good vibes they’ve got on the field. It’s a neat moment that really speaks to that winning attitude.

These were among a 4-for-4 performance that also included completions to tight end Theo Johnson and wide receiver Wan’Dale Robinson. Wilson’s continued finding of Collins all summer consistently demonstrates the rookie’s dependability and the quarterback’s faith in his upstart receiver. “We were pretty much lights out,” Wilson said, further adding that, “The guys were in the right places, executing where we wanted to be.”

The relationship between Russell Wilson and Beaux Collins goes beyond practice highlights. The 6-foot-3 wideout has impressed around camp with his professionalism and playmaking skills. Coach Brian Daboll referred to Collins as a “young professional” who “does things the right way.” It complemented his on- and off-field maturity. Wilson has mentioned Collins unprompted in media sessions and specifically highlighted his “unbelievable growth.”

Beaux Collins’ emergence comes at a great time for the Giants’ receiver depth. With Bryce Ford-Wheaton out for the season with a torn Achilles and other receivers dealing with injuries, Collins has stepped into first team reps and is making the most of it. His consistency, including five catches from rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart through six practices, shows he can build chemistry with multiple quarterbacks. The celebration and energy Beaux Collins brings to practice, combined with his blocking and route running, have him in the mix for the 53-man roster as the Giants head into their September 7 season opener against the Washington Commanders.