Giants’ No. 5 pick Arvell Reese described as ‘dynamic’ and ‘elusive’| Scouting report

The Giants addressed the defensive side of the ball with the fifth selection of the 2026 NFL Draft and may have already gotten one of the biggest steals of the draft.

The Giants took Ohio State edge rusher Avrell Reese. Reese was expected to go as high as No. 2, but the Jets decided to select Texas Tech edge rusher David Bailey.

Here are two scouting reports on Reese:

The Athletic’s Dane Bugler’s

“An impressive height/weight/speed athlete, Reese — who is also one of the youngest prospects in the draft class — was asked to play a blend of multiple positions, which showcased his vast tools for NFL scouts,” Bugler said. “He is explosive from his spot and has exceptional closing burst to cover ground in a blink. He can create short corners as a rusher but will need time to become more of a pass-rush technician, in terms of setting up and sequencing different moves. He uses his length to anchor as an edge setter and skillfully deconstructs blocks with elusive movements or violent, well-timed hands.”

“Overall, Reese has the dynamic talent to play a variety of different linebacker or edge roles at a high level, although his ceiling as a pass rusher is his most valuable asset. It is hard to find versatile defenders with his caliber of explosive tools,” Bugler continued.

NFL.com’s Chad Reuter

“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,” Reuter said. “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.”

“He’s fast in pursuit and his tackle finishing could become elite. His rush is kinetic and tough for tackles to mirror,” Reuter continued. “It’s under construction, but Reese has already sprouted go-to moves and rush plans that need more refinement. He might need some runway to hit his stride, but his rare blend of traits, explosiveness and versatility could become a perfect storm of chaos once a defense decides how to deploy him.”