NFL Combine 2026: Ohio State LB Arvell Reese eyes top five draft spot after breakout season

The 2026 NFL Scouting Combine has attracted a lot of attention to some of the best prospects, and Ohio State linebacker Arvell Reese is one of the most talked-about names this week. Reese had a great collegiate season in 2025 and is now one of the best defensive players in the upcoming NFL Draft, and is widely projected to be selected within the first five picks.

The 6-foot-4, 243-pound defender arrived at the combine following a rapid rise at Ohio State. His performances earned unanimous All-American honours and the Big Ten’s Butkus-Fitzgerald Linebacker of the Year award, putting him firmly on NFL teams’ radar.

Arvell Reese drawing interest from top draft teams

Reese finished his final college season with 69 tackles, 6.5 sacks and 10 tackles for loss, showcasing the versatility that has made him such an intriguing prospect. His ability to play both off-ball linebacker and edge rusher has become a major talking point for scouts evaluating his long-term role in the league.



Multiple teams selecting near the top of the draft have already shown interest in Reese. Reports indicate that he met with the New York Jets and the Arizona Cardinals during combine week, two franchises that could target defensive reinforcements early in the draft.

Mock drafts have consistently linked Reese with top-three selections, with some analysts projecting him as the first non-quarterback off the board. His versatility has been compared to hybrid defenders who can rush the passer while also contributing in coverage, giving defensive coordinators flexibility in how they deploy him.



Reese himself has made it clear he is comfortable playing multiple roles. Speaking at the combine, he noted that teams have asked where he sees himself, and he believes he can adapt to outside linebacker or edge responsibilities at the next level. That positional flexibility could significantly boost his draft value.

Combine performance could cement Arvell Reese’s status

The combine is a very important step for Reese to prove that he is an exceptional prospect. He is anticipated to take part in both linebacker and edge drills, which will give scouts a better idea of how fast, explosive, and good he is at rushing the passer.



Despite his rapid rise, Reese has acknowledged there is room for improvement, especially in coverage and refining his pass-rush technique. Still, his combination of production, athleticism and versatility makes him one of the most exciting defensive prospects in the 2026 class.

With draft season approaching, Reese’s performance in Indianapolis could solidify his place as a top-five pick and potentially one of the first defensive players selected in April.



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