New York Giants wide receiver Malik Nabers didn’t hide his confusion or disappointment after his team used the No. 5 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft on Ohio State linebacker Arvell Reese, passing on highly coveted safety Caleb Downs not once, but twice.
Nabers’ reactions aired live on Bleacher Report’s draft show, where he openly questioned the team’s roster strategy and positional priorities.
Why Malik Nabers Wanted the Giants to Draft Caleb Downs
Nabers’ frustration centered on what he viewed as a glaring defensive need following the Giants’ recent decision to trade defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence, which weakened the interior and put more pressure on the secondary.
Nabers argued that Downs’ versatility — the ability to drop into coverage, blitz, and match up with quick backs — made him the ideal fit for a defense suddenly lacking a dynamic playmaker on the back end.
When the Giants passed on Downs again at No. 10, selecting Miami offensive tackle Francis Mauigoa, Nabers’ reaction grew even more pointed.
Moments later, the Dallas Cowboys traded up and drafted Downs at No. 11, a twist that left Nabers visibly stunned — and now forced to face the player he wanted as a teammate twice a year.
Why the Arvell Reese Pick Left Nabers Puzzled
While Nabers emphasized that he respects Reese as a player, he questioned the logic behind adding another edge‑rushing linebacker to an already crowded position group.
The Giants have invested heavily in pass‑rush talent in recent years, including Kayvon Thibodeaux, Brian Burns, and Abdul Carter. Nabers asked the question many fans echoed: “Where do you play him?”
Reese is undeniably athletic and projects as a long‑term defensive weapon, but Nabers felt the team ignored more immediate needs — especially after trading away a cornerstone defender days before the draft.
What the Draft Reactions Mean for the Giants Moving Forward
Nabers’ candid criticism highlights a growing tension between the Giants’ roster construction and the expectations of their top offensive star.
While the front office clearly believes Reese and Mauigoa are foundational pieces, the WR’s public reaction underscores concerns about positional redundancy and missed opportunities to strengthen the secondary.
Still, Reese brings flexibility as both a linebacker and developmental edge rusher, and Mauigoa adds long‑term stability to the offensive line.
Whether those moves pay off — and whether Nabers’ concerns prove justified — will be one of the most closely watched storylines of the Giants’ 2026 season.
