The New York Giants held the fifth overall pick in the 2026 NFL draft and had several blue-chip players to choose from, including three defensive stars from Ohio State.

Linebackers Sonny Styles and Arvell Reese and safety Caleb Downs were all in play for Big Blue when the commissioner announced they were on the clock in Round 1.

The Giants chose Reese, who they felt was the most versatile and talented. Styles went two picks later to the Washington Commanders. At pick No. 10, the Giants could have grabbed Downs as well, but chose Miami offensive tackle Francis Mauigoa. Dallas snatched up Downs with the next selection.

In a recent ranking of the top 2026 rookies, ESPN has Reese and Styles tied at the top, with Downs missing the top 10.

Just as we saw during his final season at Ohio State, Reese's physicality and speed have shown up right away at the NFL level. He is comfortable attacking downhill as a run defender, and his consistency in coverage has been excellent. His four pass breakups are tied for the second most among all linebackers in 2026.

Reese is the ultimate playmaker who can not only be used on the second level but is also equally as effective as a blitzer. He has 10 pass-rush wins and two pass breakups on 93 blitz attempts this season. Reese is a key building block for the Giants' defense alongside 2025 first-round pick Abdul Carter.

Reese has 56 tackles, 1.5 sacks, and an interception this season. He has played the most snaps of any Giants defender (438, 99.32%). He will be a serious candidate for both NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year and the Pro Bowl.