Ohio State's Arvell Reese Draws Micah Parsons Comparisons from NFL Scouts

The versatile linebacker is surging up draft boards with his elite athleticism and pass-rushing potential.

Mar. 3, 2026 at 3:23pm

Ohio State linebacker Arvell Reese has emerged as a top prospect in the 2026 NFL Draft, drawing comparisons from scouts to All-Pro Micah Parsons. Reese, who played both off-ball linebacker and edge rusher for the Buckeyes, is praised for his unique combination of size, speed, and explosiveness. NFL evaluators believe the 20-year-old has just begun to tap into his pass-rushing potential and could be a top-two selection, potentially landing with the New York Jets.

Why it matters

Reese's rise as a top NFL prospect continues Ohio State's reputation for producing elite defensive talent, and his versatile skillset could make him a highly coveted player for teams in need of a game-changing defender.

The details

Reese, a 6-foot-4, 241-pound linebacker, had an impressive 2025 season for the Buckeyes, recording 6.5 sacks despite playing on the edge just 60% of the time. His combination of range, explosiveness, and striking power has drawn comparisons to Micah Parsons, the 2021 NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year. Evaluators praise Reese's ability to change direction quickly and bend around the edge, highlighted by his 4.46-second 40-yard dash time.

  • Reese had a breakout 2025 season for Ohio State.
  • He recently met with the New York Jets organization.

The players

Arvell Reese

A 20-year-old linebacker for Ohio State who is surging up 2026 NFL Draft boards.

Micah Parsons

An All-Pro linebacker for the Dallas Cowboys, who Reese has been compared to by NFL scouts.

Matt Patricia

The Ohio State defensive coordinator who has helped guide Reese's development.

New York Jets

An NFL team that is considered a leading destination for Reese in the draft.

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What’s next

The Jets, Titans, and Cardinals are considered the leading destinations where Reese's game-changing abilities could be fully realized at the professional level.

The takeaway

Arvell Reese's meteoric rise as an NFL prospect highlights Ohio State's continued ability to develop elite defensive talent. His unique combination of size, speed, and versatility has drawn comparisons to one of the league's best young linebackers, Micah Parsons, and could make him a top-two selection in the 2026 NFL Draft.