NFL insider refuses to rule out lengthy absence for Malik Nabers despite positive Instagram update from budding Giants star

Malik Nabers and New York Giants fans might be asking themselves why their team can't have nice things. Just days after delivering perhaps the best wide receiver breakout for the Giants since the Odell Beckham Jr. era, Nabers landed himself on the injury report.

The initially scary injury left fans worried they might have seen the last of their wide receiver for quite some time. However, taking to Instagram, Nabers delivered some positivity, claiming that he was "all good." In direct contrast, NFL insider Ian Rappoport refused to rule out an extended absence.

Speaking on a September 27 edition of "Good Morning Football," Rappoport claimed that complications could arise.

"He posted an Instagram message this morning that he is doing well, but obviously we do not know the severity of his concussion. We do not know how long he's going to be out. Every player is different. The way every player responds to a concussion is different," he said.

Of course, Tua Tagovailoa is the first name that one thinks of when talking about concussions leading to extended absences. That said, with Nabers suffering only his first one since joining the NFL, fans are likely to side with Nabers over Rappoport. Still, Rappoport has been around for quite a while and has seen several ways concussions can go.

Malik Nabers joins league-wide list of notable concussed players

Malik Nabers at New York Giants v Cleveland Browns - Source: Getty

The budding Giants star took a hit to the head that could potentially sideline him, but he isn't the only player in the NFL facing the problem. Trey McBride and DeVonta Smith are also facing the concussion protocol. According to Adam Schefter, McBride will miss the upcoming Week 4 game against the Washington Commanders this week.

In general, concussions "last a few weeks", per Cleveland Clinic. Some heal faster than that timeline but others can take longer. As such, both Smith and McBride could be out longer. Smith is still listed as questionable, per ESPN, so there's a chance he will return this week. That said, the longer he remains questionable, the lower the chances that he will play.

As such, this sets up an unofficial race between three notable names across three franchises to see which player will get back on the field first. With McBride and Smith already holding a head start, Malik Nabers may have some catching up to do.

If any of the above quotes are used, credit "Good Morning Football," and H/T Sportskeeda.