East Rutherford, NJ – The New York Giants made a significant investment in their future during the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft, selecting linebacker Arvell Reese with the 5th overall pick and offensive lineman Francis Mauigoa with the 10th overall pick.
Both players are 20 years old. The Giants view them as foundational pieces with five years of contract control.
General Manager Joe Schoen and head coach John Harbaugh provided explanations for both selections.
Arvell Reese (No. 5)
Reese, age 20, played at Ohio State. According to Schoen, Reese was the top non-quarterback on the Giants' draft board, and the team did not anticipate his availability at that pick. Reese was expected by some analysts to be selected earlier in the draft.
Reese will play inside linebacker. Harbaugh cited his versatility, stating he can line up in various gaps and off the edge, and is capable in coverage. Schoen noted Reese's pass rush upside and stated the defensive staff intends to use him in multiple roles.
Reese stated that most teams he spoke with viewed him as an edge rusher, but the Giants plan to use him as an inside linebacker while moving him around the defense.
"They told me how they would use me. From that I just say I'm going to be used in a unique way. I'm a weapon."
— Arvell Reese
Harbaugh confirmed the Giants do not intend to trade Kayvon Thibodeaux, who will join Brian Burns and Abdul Carter in the edge rushing group. Reese described the situation as "a great situation playing alongside those guys."
Francis Mauigoa (No. 10)
Mauigoa, who turns 21 in June, will start at guard between right tackle Jermaine Eluemunor and center John Michael Schmitz. Harbaugh stated Mauigoa can also play tackle.
Regarding a previous back injury, Schoen confirmed Mauigoa is healthy and noted the team has a trainer who worked with him at the University of Miami.