Who is Arvell Reese? Ohio State star emerging as one of the top linebackers in the 2026 NFL Draft
Ohio State linebacker Arvell Reese is projected to go quickly this Thursday when the 2026 NFL Draft begins with the first round.
With the NFL Draft just days away, teams across the league are zeroing in on defensive playmakers, and few prospects have generated as much late buzz as Arvell Reese.
The Ohio State Buckeyes standout has steadily climbed draft boards throughout the pre-draft process, positioning himself as one of the most intriguing linebacker prospects in this year’s class.
Arvell Reese’s college career and rise at Ohio State
Reese emerged as a key piece of Ohio State’s defense during his time in Columbus, showcasing a blend of athleticism, instincts, and versatility that translates well to the next level.
Arvell Reese is likely an EDGE in the NFL, but his upside at off-ball LB is just as high pic.twitter.com/1o1dMkzGDg
— NFL Draft Files (@NFL_DF) April 19, 2026
Known for his sideline-to-sideline speed, Reese thrived in a modern defensive role, capable of stopping the run, dropping into coverage, and impacting plays in space. His ability to read offenses and react quickly made him a consistent presence in big moments for the Buckeyes.
By his final season, Reese had established himself as one of the leaders of the defense, earning recognition for both his production and his football IQ. His performances against top competition helped solidify his reputation as an NFL-ready linebacker.
Combine performance and pre-draft evaluation
Reese carried that momentum into the pre-draft process, where scouts and analysts took notice of his physical tools and on-field intelligence.
Arvell Reese didn’t put up huge stats but his talent has NFL DL coaches raving: “He’s just so raw…everything is so new to him. You have to explain to him that this is what you work and why you’re working it. But once you tell him why or the mistake that he made, he’s not gonna… pic.twitter.com/B52FBBtMnc
— Bruce Feldman (@BruceFeldmanCFB) April 20, 2026
While he may not be the flashiest name in the class, Reese checks many of the boxes teams look for in a modern linebacker. His range, tackling ability, and comfort in coverage make him a strong fit for schemes that prioritize speed and flexibility at the second level.
NFL Draft projection: Where could Arvell Reese land?
With the NFL Draft just a few days away, Arvell Reese is in the conversation as one of the first defensive players off the board.
Multiple projections now have Reese landing inside the top 10, with growing belief around the league that he could go as high as the top five depending on how the board falls.
The potential is UNLIMITED for LB turned EDGE Arvell Reese 📈 @arvxll | @OhioStateFB | @heykayadams pic.twitter.com/vAtgk1fYW1
— Up & Adams (@UpAndAdamsShow) April 20, 2026
Teams picking early in the top 10, most notably the Arizona Cardinals, Washington Commanders, and New York Giants, are expected to give strong consideration to Reese, whose combination of athleticism, range, and coverage ability makes him one of the most complete defensive prospects in the class.
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