A new report has lent credence to recent speculation that the New York Giants are actually planning to use first-round pick Arvel Reese as an inside linebacker and not an edge rusher.
Many were surprised that the Ohio State edge was not selected with the No. 2 pick by the New York Jets in last month's NFL Draft. What is even more surprising is that he was not even picked in the next two selections. Arguably, the most talented pass rusher in this year's class was allowed to fall to the Giants at fifth overall.
When Big Blue used its pick at No. 5 on Reese, it established a 2026 linebacker corps that could be terrible. But it also created a log jam for the outside linebacker spot with Brian Burns, 2025 No. 1 pick Abdul Carter and 2022 first-rounder Kayvon Thibodeaux. However, soon after being drafted, Reese and the team suggested he could play inside linebacker.
Most assumed this was something they would only try on occasion and that Reese would not have a permanent spot as he showed a lot of potential by posting 10 tackles for loss and 6.5 sacks for OSU last season. However, according to NFL insider James Palmer, the Giants are serious, and so far, Reese is looking good at that position.
New York Giants fall in love with Arvel Reese's versatility
Palmer said that during mini-camp, coach John Harbaugh and the staff were impressed with how light Reese was on his feet and good in coverage. Additionally, he liked how he did not miss any assignments and confirmed the high football IQ he felt he had during the draft process.
The NFL insider also noted that if Reese is on the sideline, offenses can play away from him. If he is standing in the middle they can't do anything. This way, he can still be used in the middle of the attack, but because he is so smart and athletic, he can also make an impact in the run game and coverage.
The summer will really tell the story of where Reese ends up playing for the Giants. But so far, it looks like the team has plans to field most of its talented linebackers at the same time in 2026.
