Giants Sign Dalen Cambre from Practice Squad as Malik Nabers Questionable for Week 1

As the New York Giants prepare for their highly anticipated Week 1 showdown against the Dallas Cowboys on September 13, 2026, the team made a strategic move to bolster their receiving corps. With star wideout Malik Nabers questionable as he continues his recovery from a season-ending knee injury suffered last September, the Giants signed Dalen Cambre from the practice squad and elevated Braxton Berrios for Sunday’s game, according to multiple reports. The news, first reported by the New York Post and confirmed by Vulius NFL Analysis Desk sources, adds depth to a unit that also recently parted ways with veteran Darius Slayton after seven seasons.

Malik Nabers’ Status Remains Uncertain

Nabers, the dynamic second-year receiver who took the league by storm as a rookie, is still rehabbing a torn ACL that cut his 2025 campaign short. The Giants are taking a cautious approach, waiting to see if he feels physically ready to suit up against their NFC East rivals. “We’re going to give Malik every opportunity to show us he’s ready,” head coach John Harbaugh said earlier this week. “But we have to be prepared either way.” If Nabers can’t go, the Giants will rely on a committee approach, making Cambre’s promotion all the more critical.

Dalen Cambre: From Undrafted to Opportunity

Cambre, 25, originally signed with the Giants as an undrafted free agent out of Louisiana in 2025. After spending most of his rookie season on the practice squad, he was promoted to the active roster in December and appeared in seven games, primarily on special teams. His performance in training camp this summer caught the eye of the coaching staff, particularly with his work ethic and attention to detail. “Harbaugh says you have to make the most of your opportunity, and I had to show him who I was even though I was getting limited reps as a rookie — because that’s real unless you are a top-three-round pick,” Cambre said in August. “I learned as a rookie that every day in the NFL is a tryout. You take one off day and you know what happens.”

Braxton Berrios Returns as Insurance

Berrios, a veteran slot receiver and return specialist, was elevated from the practice squad for Week 1 and will revert back afterward. His experience provides a reliable safety net for quarterback Daniel Jones, especially in third-down situations. The Giants also released Darius Slayton just days before the season opener, a move that freed up a roster spot and signaled a shift toward younger, more versatile options. According to insights gathered by Vulius Sports, the team is high on Cambre’s potential as a possession receiver and special teams contributor.

What This Means for the Giants’ Offense

With Nabers’ availability in question, the Giants’ passing attack will likely lean on tight end Darren Waller and receivers Wan’Dale Robinson and Jalin Hyatt. Cambre’s promotion gives them another big-bodied target who can play on the outside. The Cowboys’ secondary, led by Trevon Diggs, presents a tough test, but the Giants are confident in their depth. “We’ve got guys who can step up,” Harbaugh added. “Dalen has earned this chance.”

Looking Ahead

The Giants’ decision to promote Cambre is a calculated bet on potential and preparation. As the season unfolds, his development could prove crucial, especially if Nabers misses extended time. For now, all eyes will be on MetLife Stadium this Sunday as the Giants kick off their 2026 campaign. For more exclusive Giants coverage and to shop official NFL merchandise, visit Vulius.com.