March 14, 2026, 7:02 a.m. ET

The New York Giants recently hosted Ohio State linebacker Arvell Reese for a pre-draft top-30 visit, joining the New York Jets in bringing in the highly regarded prospect for in-depth evaluations.

Arye Pulli of Sports Illustrated reports that these meetings took place earlier this week, allowing Reese to connect with both NFC East rivals amid the opening of NFL free agency.

Reese was hosted by the Jets and the New York Giants for a pre-draft top 30 visit earlier this week, OnSI has learned.

Reese, who is ranked the third-highest player on ESPN draft analyst Mel Kiper’s post-Combine big board, discreetly navigated New York, meeting with both teams as the NFL free agency period began. He’s an option for the Jets at pick No. 2 and for the Giants at pick No. 5.

Reese, a 6-foot-4, 241-pound versatile defender from Cleveland, Ohio, emerged as a standout in his junior season with the Buckeyes in 2025. He recorded 69 tackles, 6.5 sacks, and earned consensus All-American honors, First-Team All-Big Ten recognition, and Big Ten Linebacker of the Year.

At the NFL Scouting Combine, he impressed with a 4.46-second 40-yard dash and versatility to play off-ball linebacker or edge rusher. Scouts praise his athleticism, frame, and potential as a hybrid player who can rush the passer while dropping into coverage.

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Scouting report from NFL Network’s Lance Zierlein:

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. 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. 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.

Projected as a top-five selection in the 2026 NFL draft, Reese declared early and has drawn strong interest from teams seeking defensive impact.