Arvell Reese Emerges as Premier Defensive Talent at 2026 NFL Scouting Combine
The 2026 NFL Scouting Combine has become a focal point for evaluating elite football prospects, with Ohio State linebacker Arvell Reese standing out as one of the most discussed athletes this week. Following an outstanding collegiate season in 2025, Reese has solidified his reputation as one of the premier defensive players available in the upcoming NFL Draft, with widespread projections placing him within the first five selections.
Rapid Rise and Collegiate Accolades
Arriving at the combine after a meteoric ascent at Ohio State, the 6-foot-4, 243-pound defender brings an impressive resume. His performances throughout the season earned him unanimous All-American honors and the prestigious Big Ten’s Butkus-Fitzgerald Linebacker of the Year award, firmly establishing him on the radar of NFL franchises seeking defensive reinforcements.
In his final college season, Reese compiled 69 tackles, 6.5 sacks, and 10 tackles for loss, demonstrating the versatility that makes him such an intriguing prospect. His ability to excel both as an off-ball linebacker and an edge rusher has become a key topic of conversation among scouts, who are evaluating his potential long-term role in the league.
Significant Interest from Top NFL Teams
Multiple teams with early draft picks have already expressed strong interest in Reese. Reports confirm that he met with the New York Jets and the Arizona Cardinals during combine week, two organizations likely to target defensive upgrades early in the draft. Mock drafts consistently link Reese with top-three selections, with some analysts predicting he could be the first non-quarterback chosen.
His versatility has drawn comparisons to hybrid defenders capable of both pass rushing and coverage, offering defensive coordinators significant flexibility in deployment. Reese himself has emphasized his comfort with multiple roles, noting at the combine that teams have inquired about his positional preferences, and he believes he can adapt to outside linebacker or edge responsibilities at the professional level.
Combine Performance as a Critical Evaluation Point
The combine represents a crucial opportunity for Reese to validate his status as an exceptional prospect. He is expected to participate in both linebacker and edge drills, providing scouts with deeper insights into his speed, explosiveness, and pass-rushing proficiency. Despite his rapid rise, Reese acknowledges areas for improvement, particularly in coverage and refining his pass-rush technique.
Nevertheless, his combination of production, athleticism, and versatility positions him as one of the most exciting defensive prospects in the 2026 draft class. As draft season progresses, Reese’s performance in Indianapolis could cement his place as a top-five pick and potentially one of the first defensive players selected in April.
This positional flexibility is likely to significantly enhance his draft value, making him a highly coveted asset for teams aiming to bolster their defensive units. With the NFL Draft approaching, all eyes remain on Reese as he continues to showcase his talents and solidify his standing among the elite prospects of his generation.
