What's Happening?
Ohio State linebacker Arvell Reese has announced his decision to enter the 2026 NFL Draft following a successful junior season. Reese is ranked as the No. 6 overall player in the CBS Sports NFL Draft Prospect Rankings and is projected to be a potential top-10 pick. In his announcement, Reese expressed gratitude towards Ohio State's coaching staff, including head coach Ryan Day and strength coach Mickey Marotti, for their support and development. During the 2025 season, Reese recorded 69 total tackles, including 34 solo tackles, and 6.5 sacks. He was also a finalist for the Butkus Award, which is given to the top linebacker in college football. Reese's final game for Ohio State was in the College Football Playoff quarterfinal against Miami, where
he made seven tackles, although the Buckeyes lost 24-14.
Why It's Important?
Arvell Reese's declaration for the NFL Draft is significant as it highlights the ongoing trend of top college football players leaving school early to pursue professional careers. Reese's high ranking and potential as a top-10 pick underscore his value and the impact he could have in the NFL. His performance at Ohio State, particularly his ability to make significant tackles and sacks, makes him a valuable asset for any NFL team looking to strengthen their defense. This move also reflects the strength of Ohio State's football program in developing NFL-ready talent, which can influence recruitment and the program's reputation. For the NFL, Reese's entry adds to the pool of talented defensive players available in the 2026 draft, potentially impacting team strategies and draft decisions.
What's Next?
As Arvell Reese prepares for the 2026 NFL Draft, he will likely participate in various pre-draft activities, including the NFL Scouting Combine and individual team workouts, to showcase his skills and improve his draft stock. NFL teams will be evaluating his performance, physical attributes, and potential fit within their defensive schemes. Reese's decision will also prompt Ohio State to adjust their defensive lineup and potentially focus on recruiting or developing new talent to fill the gap left by his departure. The draft process will be closely watched by analysts and fans, as Reese's performance could influence his final draft position and the overall defensive selections in the draft.
