Jets Favored to Select Ohio State LB Arvell Reese at No. 2 Overall

Reese projected as top target for Jets in 2026 NFL Draft after Mendoza expected to go No. 1 to Raiders

Apr. 20, 2026 at 5:06am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fragmented, cubist-style painting depicting the angular, geometric forms of a football linebacker in motion, rendered in shades of green, blue, and orange.The Jets' selection of Ohio State linebacker Arvell Reese could be a pivotal moment in the franchise's rebuilding efforts.NYC Today

With Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza expected to be the first overall pick by the Las Vegas Raiders, the New York Jets have multiple options with the second selection in the 2026 NFL Draft. According to the latest odds from FanDuel Sportsbook, former Ohio State linebacker Arvell Reese is the clear favorite to be the Jets' choice.

Why it matters

The Jets have several key needs to address in the draft, and the selection at No. 2 overall will be a pivotal decision for the franchise as they look to build a contender. Reese is projected as a potential impact player who could immediately bolster the Jets' defense.

The details

Reese, a 6'3" 240-pound linebacker, was a standout performer for Ohio State over the past three seasons. He recorded 298 total tackles, 32.5 tackles for loss, 12.5 sacks, and 5 forced fumbles during his college career. Scouts praise Reese's combination of size, speed, and instincts, projecting him as a potential Pro Bowl-caliber player at the next level.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 24-26.
  • The Jets hold the No. 2 overall pick in the draft.

The players

Fernando Mendoza

An Indiana quarterback who is expected to be the No. 1 overall pick by the Las Vegas Raiders in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Arvell Reese

A former Ohio State linebacker who is the projected favorite to be selected by the New York Jets with the No. 2 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

New York Jets

An NFL franchise based in New York that holds the No. 2 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Las Vegas Raiders

An NFL franchise based in Las Vegas that is expected to select Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Reese is a true three-down linebacker who can impact the game in so many ways. He has the size, speed, and instincts to be a dominant force in the NFL for years to come.”

— Todd McShay, ESPN Draft Analyst

What’s next

The Jets will have several weeks to evaluate their options before making their selection at No. 2 overall on draft night.

The takeaway

The Jets have a clear top target in Arvell Reese as they look to add an impact player to their defense with the second overall pick. Reese's combination of size, athleticism, and production at Ohio State has him projected as a potential star at the next level.