Arvell Reese NFL Draft Scouting Report

by Athlon Sports
Arvell Reese NFL Draft Scouting Report

Ohio State Buckeyes linebacker Arvell Reese (8) tackles Washington Huskies quarterback Demond Williams Jr. (2).

Syndication: The Columbus Dispatch

The 2026 NFL Draft is right around the corner, and we've got you covered with in-depth scouting reports for all of this year's top prospects.

Ohio State's Arvell Reese is one of the most promising players in the entire draft, with a versatile skill set the Buckeyes deployed at multiple positions. Whether he lines up on the edge or off the ball, Reese has limitless potential thanks to rare size and athleticism, and he's still just 20 years old.

Here's everything NFL fans need to know about Dunker heading into this year's draft:

Arvell Reese's Vitals

Height: 6-4

Weight: 243

Age: 20

Arvell Reese's Strengths

A versatile front-seven defender with the experience and skill set to excel at multiple positions, Reese can wreak havoc from just about anywhere on the field. He made the transition from off-ball linebacker to edge player look seamless this season, using impressive first-step quickness, length and athleticism to be an effective pass rusher. He can win with both speed and power off the edge, keeping opposing blockers guessing from snap to snap. The fluidity and range that made him a talented linebacker prospect are rare among edge defenders, and he’s got the motor to consistently chase down plays from the back side or pursue across the field. His unique skill set allows him to be reliable and opportunistic when asked to drop into coverage, shutting down passing lanes with his wingspan and wrapping up ball-carriers in the open field to limit big plays after the catch thanks to polished tackling technique.

Arvell Reese's Weaknesses

As a pure pass rusher, Reese still has a ton of room to grow in terms of his technique and hand usage, as he wins more with pure athletic ability at this point. Deepening his bag of initial moves and learning how to set up and execute well-timed counter attacks will be key to taking the next step in his development in that area of his game. He can be a bit too aggressive at times, as both a run defender and in coverage, biting on play-action fakes and overrunning gaps to leave open cutback lanes.

Final Analysis

Similar to Abdul Carter last year, Reese brings a unique skill set to the table, with experience at multiple positions and limitless potential after transitioning to primarily an edge role in 2025. Refining his technique will make him a more complete player at the next level, but his physical traits and versatility alone give him a sky-high ceiling in any NFL scheme.

2026 NFL Draft Projection: 1st Round

Published:
by Athlon Sports