As the new elder statesman of the New York Giants’ defense, All-Pro pass-rusher Brian Burns’ words and evaluations now carry immense weight.
Take Burns’ initial impressions of rookie edge rusher and No. 5 pick Arvell Reese, who debuted in rookie minicamps last weekend.
Although Burns and Reese haven’t practiced together yet, Burns told the New York Post that he’s already impressed by the 6-foot-4, 241-pound rookie’s size and mindset.
“I really like what he said in the media, and I [kind of] know it’s not fluff when he said he’d rather be seen than heard,” Burns said. “That speaks volumes as a rookie. I really appreciate that.”
Brian Burns has high praise for Giants rookie linebacker Arvell Reese
Reese, a former four-star recruit from Ohio State, finished last year with 10 tackles for loss and 6.5 sacks. He earned All-American honors and Big Ten Linebacker of the Year.
Although Reese was frequently mocked to the crosstown Jets at No. 2, Texas Tech standout David Bailey overtook him late in the pre-draft process.
Reese is the newest addition to a Giants defense already featuring Abdul Carter and Kayvon Thibodeaux. The Giants have resisted trading Thibodeaux, the No. 5 pick in 2022, who is entering the final year of his rookie contract.
Barring injury, Reese is expected to start alongside Tremaine Edmunds at inside linebacker. The Giants will run a 3-4 defense under new head coach John Harbaugh.
“He does carry that kinda business-minded persona, so as a rookie, I feel that’s important,” Burns said of Reese. “He’s trying to show the vets he’s about his business, and he’s gonna come in to work.’’
The pressure is on Reese in more ways than one. Thibodeaux has underperformed the last two years, and his future in New York remains increasingly unclear.
As of Thursday, there have been no credible rumors regarding a potential Thibodeaux trade ahead of training camp. The 25-year-old has not publicly requested a trade, even as he remains unlikely to open this season in the starting lineup.
Burns and Reese will get their first opportunity to share the field beginning Tuesday, May 19, when a three-day OTA workout period begins. The Giants also have OTAs scheduled for May 27–29 and June 1–4.
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