Giants NFL Draft 2026: New York selects Arvell Reese at No. 5
Gints end up with a surprising defensive player with first choice.
Arvell Reese | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images With their first of two first-round picks in the 2026 NFL Draft, the New York Giants on Thursday selected Ohio State edge defender Arvell Reese No. 5 overall. The first four picks were Las Vegas Raiders — Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana NY Jets — David Bailey, edge, Texas Tech Arizona Cardinals — Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame Tennessee Titans — Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State That left the Giants with all three Ohio State defenders to choose from — Reese, linebacker Sonny Styles, and safety Caleb Downs.
They also had the option of selecting Arizona State wide receiver Jordyn Tyson or Miami offensive lineman Francis Mauigoa. They chose Reese, who some thought would go No. 2 to the Jets.
The possibility of the Giants selecting Reese had not been widely discussed pre-draft. NFL. com’s Lance Zierlein says: At 20 years old, Reese is still growing into his frame and his game, but learning from James Laurinaitis (linebackers coach) and Matt Patricia (defensive coordinator) should give him a head start in acclimating to the pro game.
He plays off-ball linebacker and stand-up edge with the talent to post impact production from either spot. His third-down versatility adds alignment variety and helps camouflage defensive intent. His run diagnosis and angles of attack are average, but he flows quickly once he triggers, using assertive hands to stack and play off blocks.
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