Abel Reese’s college performance passed a lie detector test.
The Giants anticipated acquiring a unique blend of size and athleticism at linebacker by selecting Reese with the fifth overall pick. After overseeing the second rookie minicamp practice on Saturday, head coach John Harbaugh felt relieved.
“I thought he moved well,” Harbaugh noted. “He’s over 6-foot-4 and weighs around 240 pounds. Yet, he moves like someone smaller, with great agility. The natural movement we observed on tape translated onto the practice field, which puts us at ease.”
Unlike previous coach Brian Daboll, who usually kept his draft class sidelined to prevent injuries, Harbaugh involved Reese, first-round pick Francis Mauigoa, and five other rookies in various drills, including 11-on-11 plays.
At one point, Harbaugh took Reese aside for some one-on-one coaching focused on shedding blocks.
“He’s quite serious,” Harbaugh said. “I don’t think he made a single mistake during the two days, which is impressive.”
Rookie minicamp serves as a rapid introduction to working with veterans ahead of upcoming OTAs. In contrast to past years, where quick concerns arose about a quarterback’s arm strength or commitment, this situation felt different.
“It was everything I ever dreamed of,” Reese shared. “I felt good.”
In his only starting season at Ohio State, Reese tallied 10 tackles and 6.5 sacks.
“I want to quickly demonstrate to the team that I’m one of those players who prefers action over just being seen,” he said. “As a rookie, it’s essential to know your role on the field before drawing attention to yourself. Just minimize errors and show that you can improve each day.”
The Giants didn’t expect to draft Reese at No. 5; he was favored to land with the Jets at No. 2 for much of the pre-draft buildup, but they were prepared for surprises.
“Many viewed him as an edge rusher, but we see him as a stand-up linebacker,” assistant general manager Brandon Brown explained. “We’ve witnessed his ability to lead the huddle over these past days, reflecting his attention to detail.”
Reese left a strong impression on Giants’ second-round cornerback Colton Hood during their workout for the NFL Combine.
“You can see his size,” Hood remarked. “When he came to the podium, it probably looked like the Hulk, right? It’s not only his physical traits; he’s intelligent on the field. That’s why he will be a challenge.”
Brown mentioned to the scouting team that defensive coordinator Denard Wilson aims for a “disruptive, violent, and versatile” approach in his scheme. Soon, Reese will line up alongside fellow towering linebacker Tremaine Edmunds, whose speed should complement Reese’s strength.
“We have two guys who are 6-foot-4,” Brown said. “They’ll tell you that a rim protector is essential for passing defense.”
Harbaugh hinted at using Reese’s versatility both off the ball and in defensive roles.
“We’re not sure if we’re being clever or not,” Harbaugh mentioned.
The Giants previously implemented a “NASCAR” pass rush strategy with players like Justin Tuck and Osi Umenyiora in 2011. Could it be making a comeback?
“We want to mix rushing with reporting,” Brown stated. “Reese can execute multiple alignments, allowing us to confuse opponents and create advantageous matchups.”
Reese expressed gratitude toward linebackers coach Frank Busch for preparing him and sixth-round linebacker Jack Kelly leading up to rookie minicamp.
“He spent considerable time going over the playbook with us,” Reese said. “For me, considering the various roles I could play is always exciting.”
It’s not just him who’s feeling optimistic.
