Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders and New York Giants rookie wide receiver Malik Nabers took the streets of New York City by storm on Friday night, creating an unforgettable viral moment. The two rising football stars were spotted casually playing catch in the middle of the bustling city streets, weaving passes between passing cars and iconic yellow taxis.
The impromptu display, captured on video, quickly spread across social media, leaving fans buzzing about the possibilities for their futures, both individually and potentially together.
Crossing Paths in NYC
Sanders, in town for the 2024 Heisman Trophy Award Show as one of the top candidates, showcased his pinpoint accuracy in the unconventional setting. Meanwhile, Nabers, who now calls New York home as a member of the Giants, was all smiles as he hauled in passes from one of college football’s brightest stars.
For the Giants, who are projected to hold the first overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, the scene fueled speculation about Sanders potentially joining the team next season. The franchise has struggled to find consistent success with Daniel Jones, leaving the door wide open for a new quarterback to reinvigorate the team and its fanbase.
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A Connection Years in the Making
While this was their first high-profile meeting in New York, Sanders and Nabers share a history that dates back to their high school days. Nabers, speaking to reporters earlier this week, recalled their encounters at one of Deion Sanders’ camps, where they competed in a 7-on-7 championship match.
“When I was younger, I did go to Deion Sanders’ camp and stuff like that. I know about Shedeur,” Nabers said. “We actually played in it—the day after, it was like a 7-on-7 camp. We met Shedeur in the finals. Actually, (LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier) Nuss was my quarterback at the time at the camp. We all went to the championship match against Shedeur.”
Nabers continued, “I watched Shedeur when he was at Jackson State. Me and him were in the same class. So, it was always like, I’m aware of my competition. But he wasn’t in competition with me; it was just always the fact that it’s Deion Sanders’ son. So, you always want to watch what those guys are doing.”
Their mutual respect was on full display during their NYC catch, underscoring the possibility of an electric partnership if the Giants were to draft Sanders.
A New Era for the Giants?
For a franchise desperate for a spark, a potential duo of Sanders and Nabers could be exactly what the New York Giants need to reignite excitement among fans. Giants general manager Joe Schoen has reportedly been scouting Sanders extensively throughout the season, attending multiple games and practices. If the team ends up with the first overall pick in the draft, Sanders is considered the most likely selection.
Sanders’ star power, combined with Nabers’ breakout rookie season, could provide the Giants with the dynamic playmaking tandem they’ve been searching for since their offensive struggles with Daniel Jones. Fans are already envisioning the possibilities, with many taking to social media to express excitement about the viral moment.
What’s Next?
As the Heisman ceremony approaches, Sanders remains a centerpiece of college football conversation, with his potential NFL future looming large. Nabers, meanwhile, continues to build on his impressive rookie campaign with the Giants, solidifying himself as one of the league’s most promising young wide receivers.
Their viral NYC moment might just be a playful preview of what’s to come—a tantalizing glimpse of a future partnership that could take the NFL by storm. For now, it’s a reminder of the excitement and buzz that stars like Sanders and Nabers bring to the game, both on and off the field.