The New York Giants had two picks in the top 10 in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft. After the franchise selected Arvell Reese No. 5 overall, the front office turned around and picked Francis Mauigoa No. 10 overall.
By choosing to select the former Miami Hurricane offensive lineman, the Giants officially passed on reuniting Reese with his former Ohio State Buckeyes teammate Caleb Downs, according to Ari Meirov of The 33rd Team. Rather than acquiring two top-tier defensive prospects, New York balanced its approach, focusing on the offensive and defensive lines.
“This means the Giants passed on Ohio State S Caleb Downs, passing up the opportunity to reunite him with Arvell Reese,” reported Ari Meirov.
While the Giants improved the offensive line with the No. 10 pick, Downs ended up going No. 11 overall to the Dallas Cowboys. Although the opportunity was missed to reunite the two Ohio State stars, the New York brass likely feels great about adding Mauigoa.
Francis Mauigoa served as a starting right tackle at Miami for all three seasons during his tenure. He was one of the most consistent offensive linemen in college football, playing in every single game and allowing the lowest amount of pressure in the 2025-26 campaign. He is likely to move to right guard now that he is in the NFL.
As for Arvell Reese, he is one of the most exciting defensive prospects in the draft this year. He proved to be a difference-maker during his three seasons at Ohio State, playing a starting role in two. Reese ended last season with 69 combined tackles (34 solo) and 6.5 sacks.
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