Giants Draft Arvell Reese Amid Player Questions and Coach Clarifications

The New York Giants used the fifth overall pick in the NFL Draft to select Ohio State linebacker Arvell Reese. The pick completed a seven-player haul that analysts, including The Athletic’s Dane Brugger, ranked second overall in the league. Wide receiver Malik Nabers publicly asked where Reese would fit, expressing uncertainty about his position.

Giants Now: Dane Brugler's draft class rankings

Head coach John Harbaugh met with Nabers and explained that Reese will primarily line up as an inside linebacker alongside Tremaine Edmunds, not as an edge rusher. Harbaugh described the defense as “pretty flexible” and “position-less,” allowing Reese to mix pressure packages. He also noted ongoing trade talks with the New Orleans Saints concerning Kayvon Thibodeaux.

Giants’ John Harbaugh Unfazed by Malik Nabers’ Draft Remarks

Nabers’ livestream also referenced the recent selection of Abdul Carter and the presence of veterans Brian Burns and Kayvon Thibodeaux, questioning depth at the edge. He expressed a desire to face safety Caleb Downs, taken by the Dallas Cowboys at No. 11. Giants fans divided, with some criticizing Nabers for speaking publicly and others supporting his curiosity. After the meeting, Nabers visited Reese’s family at the team facility.

Giants' Harbaugh not worried about Nabers' draft comments

At Ohio State, Reese posted 69 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, 6.5 sacks, five quarterback hurries and two pass breakups in 2025. He earned Consensus All-American honors, the Big Ten Butkus-Fitzgerald Linebacker of the Year award, and repeated Academic All-Big Ten recognition.

Giants Now: Dane Brugler's draft class rankings

Sources differ on the draft year: The Athletic and Operation Sports label it the 2025 NFL Draft, while The Score and Giants.com refer to a 2026 Draft. Harbaugh’s comments describe Reese as an inside linebacker, yet early speculation suggested an edge-rusher role. The status of the Saints-Giants trade remains unclear after New Orleans acquired Tyree Wilson.

Giants’ John Harbaugh Unfazed by Malik Nabers’ Draft Remarks

• “Love the player, don’t get me wrong. But where do you play?” — Malik Nabers, Wide Receiver, New York Giants

'He seemed fired up about it': Jim Harbaugh sat Malik Nabers down after his live draft criticism and walked him through the plan for Arvell Reese

• “I would never intentionally take away from the biggest moment/night of Arvell’s life.” — Malik Nabers, Wide Receiver, New York Giants

'He seemed fired up about it': Jim Harbaugh sat Malik Nabers down after his live draft criticism and walked him through the plan for Arvell Reese

• “Reese will line up next to Tremaine Edmunds and contribute across various gaps,” — John Harbaugh, Head Coach, New York Giants

Giants’ John Harbaugh Unfazed by Malik Nabers’ Draft Remarks

• “I think we have a bunch of Giants, figuratively and literally,” — John Harbaugh, Head Coach, New York Giants

Giants Now: Dane Brugler's draft class rankings

Reese will join the Giants as they prepare for the upcoming season, while Nabers will aim to improve on his rookie totals of 109 receptions, 1,204 yards and seven touchdowns. The team will continue monitoring the Saints trade talks.

Giants' Harbaugh not worried about Nabers' draft comments