Giants Draft Arvell Reese No. 5: Plan and Impact

On April 24, 2026, the New York Giants selected Ohio State linebacker Arvell Reese with the fifth overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Reese, a former Big Ten Linebacker of the Year, joins a defense described as “position-less.”

Heavy

The Giants’ roster includes 5-sack Pro Bowler Brian Burns, 2025 No. 3 pick Abdul Carter, and Kayvon Thibodeaux. They added offensive tackle Francis Maiugoa at No. 10 and keep six picks for the draft’s final days. Reese, a Big Ten Linebacker of the Year, adds versatility to a pass-rush already featuring Burns, Carter and Thibodeaux.

Heavy

Head coach John Harbaugh and GM Joe Schoen said Reese will line up at inside linebacker in Dennard Wilson’s scheme, pairing him with Tremaine Edmunds to add athleticism to the middle of the defense.

Heavy

• April 24, 2026 – Giants select Arvell Reese at No. 5.

Heavy

• Later that day – Harbaugh announces Reese will play inside and weak-side linebacker.

Heavy

• Evening – Schoen confirms the role in a press briefing.

Heavy

• April 24, 2026 – Schefter reports Giants will not trade Kayvon Thibodeaux.

Heavy

Placing Reese at inside linebacker with Tremaine Edmunds adds athletic depth to the defense’s core while keeping edge-rushers on the rotation. The flexible scheme aims to generate pressure from varied angles and improve run defense, enhancing the Giants’ overall competitiveness.

Heavy

Giants described their defense as “position-less.” Harbaugh noted Reese will have “an opportunity to move around, but he’ll line up next to Tremaine.” Schoen confirmed linebacker plan; denied trade of Kayvon Thibodeaux.

Heavy

ESPN’s Benjamin Solak argued Reese fits better as a stack LB next to Tremaine Edmunds than at EDGE. Sources differ on his optimal role, and the report that the Giants will not trade Kayvon Thibodeaux originates from a source, not an official statement.

Heavy

“Arvell is a versatile player. We’re gonna play him at inside backer, WILL backer,” — John Harbaugh, Giants Head Coach

Sportskeeda

“Our defense is flexible, position-less. He’ll have an opportunity to move around, but he’ll line up next to Tremaine (Edmunds).” — John Harbaugh, Giants Head Coach

Sportskeeda

“Have to imagine the Giants play Reese more at stack LB next to Tremaine Edmunds than they do at EDGE to start. Good. That’s his better position right now.” — Benjamin Solak, ESPN Analyst

Heavy

“Despite drafting Arvell Reese, the Giants do not intend to trade DE Kayvon Thibodeaux, per source.” — Adam Schefter, NFL Reporter

Heavy

Reese will join rookie minicamp and training camp, competing with veteran Micah McFadden and other linebackers for early snaps. The team will use its six remaining picks to add depth on offense and special teams before the season.

Heavy