Former Notre Dame defensive lineman Khalid Kareem is getting a fresh start in the Big Apple, and this time, he's swapping his hand-in-the-dirt role for a stand-up position. The New York Giants announced Thursday that they've signed Kareem as an outside linebacker—a significant shift from his traditional defensive line duties with the Fighting Irish and throughout most of his NFL journey.

Drafted in the fifth round by the Cincinnati Bengals in 2020, Kareem's professional path has been anything but smooth. After struggling to find his footing in Cincinnati, he took a tour through the league, suiting up for the Indianapolis Colts, Chicago Bears, and Atlanta Falcons. Now, he's hoping a change in scenery—and position—can reignite his career.

The move to linebacker isn't just a roster adjustment; it's a strategic pivot that could unlock Kareem's athleticism in new ways. Standing at 6'4" and 265 pounds, he has the length and explosiveness that Giants defensive coordinator Shane Bowen might mold into a pass-rushing threat off the edge. It's a gamble, but one with potential upside for a Giants team looking to bolster its linebacker corps.

This signing comes as New York placed cornerback Thaddeus Dixon on injured reserve, opening a roster spot. For Kareem, it's a chance to prove that the talent that made him a standout at Notre Dame can still translate at the NFL level—even if it looks a little different than before.