New York Giants linebacker Arvell Reese has emerged as an early candidate for the 2026 AP NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year award.
ESPN's Ben Solak has named Reese one of the five favorites to win next season’s DROY.
The Giants selected Reese with the No. 5 overall pick in the 2026 NFL draft. The Ohio native described himself as an outside linebacker and edge rusher before the draft. However, given his positional versatility, the Giants plan to deploy him as an off-ball linebacker alongside Tremaine Edmunds in 2026.
Reese will benefit from an elite front that he can play behind next season in New York. Second-team All-Pro edge rusher Brian Burns, 2025 DROY finalist Abdul Carter, and Kayvon Thibodeaux will generate significant pressure in the Giants’ pass rush, creating more opportunities for Reese to make plays.
The 20-year-old Reese recorded 6.5 sacks and 10 tackles for loss during the 2025 season at Ohio State. He is poised to receive ample opportunities to build his case for DROY honors.
This article originally appeared on Giants Wire: Giants' Arvell Reese among early Defensive Rookie of the Year favorites
