Harbaugh Defends Nabers After Fox Critics Question Receiver's Demeanor
The Giants coach pushed back against on-air commentary that labeled Malik Nabers' frustration as negative during Sunday's loss to the Eagles.
By Carolina Wood ·
John Harbaugh pushed back on broadcast criticism of Malik Nabers on Monday, arguing that television analysts cannot fully judge a player's body language without understanding the team dynamic. The comments came after a Fox Sports broadcast during the Giants' 19-11 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday. Play-by-play announcer Joe Davis described Nabers' demeanor as terrible early in the fourth quarter. Analyst Greg Olsen agreed, stating that the reception was just not good.
Nabers finished the game with five receptions for 43 yards. During the broadcast, Davis noted that the receiver waved his arm after a pass from quarterback J.J. McCarthy sailed behind the intended target. Olsen, a former NFL tight end, later offered a more nuanced view. He said there is a fine line between demanding the ball and taking away from teammates' success. Olsen emphasized that a great wide receiver must be happy when a teammate catches an open touchdown.
Harbaugh said he tries to stay out of judging such moments because it is difficult to assess the application of body language through a TV screen. He noted that outside observers do not know the person, the circumstances, or who the player is talking to. The coach added that he does not think it makes sense to label the behavior as good or bad without that context. He suggested this is good advice for others as well.
Harbaugh also addressed a muffed punt by kick returner Charlie Jones. Jones played with a protective wrap on his injured right thumb. Harbaugh stated that the miscue was not thumb related. He said the error was more about decision-making and misjudging the ball.
The Giants will host the Jacksonville Jaguars at MetLife Stadium on Nov. 22. The kickoff time for that game has been moved to 4:25 p.m. ET, earlier than the originally scheduled 1 p.m. start. The team is asking fans to wear white for the contest. The Giants plan to wear their Vintage White uniforms. The event will include special player introductions and a fireworks and laser show beginning at 7:45 p.m.
