What happened: Pro Football Focus ranked Gabe Jacas third, Arvell Reese sixth, and Omar Cooper Jr. eighth among the league's highest-graded rookies. The trio emerged as top performers in the evaluation spanning the 2026 rookie class.
Why it matters: The grades mark another shared appearance for Arvell Reese and Gabe Jacas near the top of first-year defensive rankings. Reese was drafted fifth overall by the New York Giants in 2026, while the New England Patriots selected Jacas 55th overall. Cooper has established an offensive role in New York while managing an ankle injury.
By the numbers: In 2026 through 8 games, Reese has recorded 68 tackles, 4.5 sacks, and 1 interception. In 2026 through 9 games, Jacas has totaled 26 tackles, 3 sacks, and 1 interception.
What to watch: Cooper's practice status remains central heading into the weekend after being limited on Wednesday with an ankle injury. Reese and Jacas continue their defensive campaigns as regular-season action resumes in Week 11.