INDIANAPOLIS — Arvell Reese of Ohio State explicitly stated at the NFL combine that he primarily considers himself an outside linebacker/edge rusher, as opposed to an interior linebacker, for professional play.
“Clubs have largely been inquiring about my preferred role and seeking to gauge my preference. I’ve informed them I believe my position is an outside linebacker/edge player,” Reese mentioned on Tuesday. “I haven’t even fully demonstrated my pass-rushing capabilities yet.”
Arvell Reese’s optimal role presents one of the intriguing inquiries for the 2026 NFL draft, as he is forecast as a possible top-five selection, having accumulated 69 tackles and 6.5 sacks during the previous season. He stated his intention to complete the 40-yard sprint at the combine, simultaneously engaging in both outside linebacker/edge and off-the-ball linebacker drills.
Within his most recent simulated draft, Mel Kiper Jr. of ESPN projects the 6-foot-4, 243-pound Reese as the fourth overall pick, heading to the Tennessee Titans.
Reese, age 20, mentioned having already interviewed with the New York Jets (second pick), Arizona Cardinals (third pick), and Cleveland Browns (sixth pick), alongside other teams. He disclosed that during his discussion with the Jets, coaches implemented a defensive scheme and sought to observe his mental aptitude in response.
Reese lauded Ohio State defensive coordinator Matt Patricia and linebackers coach James Laurinaitis for readying him for professional football. He observed that Patricia — a veteran ex-assistant for the New England Patriots — had previously presented him with video footage of former NFL linebacker Jamie Collins, highlighting their comparable adaptability.
Reese conceded he will need to build more mass as an outside linebacker/edge player in the NFL but believed he demonstrated the capacity to effectively contain rushing plays from that position in college. He characterized his method for rushing the passer as an amalgamation of “velocity and force.”