Arvell Reese is projected as one of the first linebackers off the board in the 2026 NFL Draft. The Ohio State standout earned consensus All-American honors as a junior and has evolved from a reserve player to a key part of the Buckeyes' defense.
Born on August 28, 2004, in Cleveland, Ohio, Reese attended Glenville High School and is the son of Gwen Reese. He has often spoken about the support he receives from his family.
Reese enrolled at Ohio State in 2023 as a four-star recruit and has since recorded 112 tackles, 13.5 tackles for loss, 7.0 sacks, and seven quarterback hurries across 38 games. He was part of Ohio State's 2024 College Football Playoff national championship team.
Scouts have described Reese as the most physically impressive linebacker in the 2026 draft class, and his versatility draws comparisons to edge-linebacker hybrids. With a major in human development and family science, Reese has kept his personal life private, including any long-term romantic relationships.
