With OTAs and offseason practices underway in East Rutherford, New York Giants fans have begun thinking about what to expect from this year's team.
Not only for the Giants but also for football fans and fantasy players, this is a critical time to keep a close eye on your favorite players around the league before training camp kicks off in August.
Not only are fantasy football leagues set to start within the next two months, but NFL fans are also preparing for the release of the new Madden 26 game, scheduled for launch on August 14.
On Tuesday, EA Sports announced Eagles running back Saquon Barkley would grace this year's cover after a successful season leading Philly to a Super Bowl title. Barkley's performance left a sour taste in Giants fans' mouths.
Barkley being named this year's cover athlete is a constant reminder of the trauma that Hard Knocks inflicted on Giants fans last offseason. But don't worry. Giants fans might get to see one of their star players receive the recognition he deserves soon.
Malik Nabers could be on the cover of Madden sooner than you think
Nabers was one of the league's most impressive rookies last season, totaling 1,204 receiving yards and seven touchdowns on 109 receptions in 15 games, earning PFWA All-Rookie Team and Pro Bowl honors.
If he continues on this trajectory, he could be one of the league's biggest stars, earning him a spot on the cover of Madden in the future.
Not to mention, he put up these numbers last year with a quarterback room consisting of Daniel Jones, Drew Lock, Tommy DeVito, and Tim Boyle. Just think what Nabers could accomplish with Russell Wilson, Jameis Winston, and Jaxson Dart under center.
Nabers also broke several records as a rookie, including Odell Beckham Jr.'s previous record of 91 receptions and Steve Smith's single-season franchise record of 107.
Speaking of OBJ, he was the last Big Blue player to grace the cover of Madden in 2016, where he is seen making his iconic one-handed catch. Beckham Jr. became the cover athlete after two seasons, beating out Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski for the cover.
If Nabers is anything like Odell at the beginning of his career, we're in for a treat. Nabers is entering year two, so if he puts up similar numbers, EA Sports could have him on line one.
So, whether you're preparing for a fantasy draft or looking for a player to play with in Madden 26, don't let Saquon sway you and take Nabers. Buy stock now in the Giants' second-year wide receiver before it's too late.