Linebacker or Edge Rusher? Arvell Reese's NFL Draft Versatility

Ohio State's Arvell Reese could be the first defensive player selected in the 2026 NFL Draft, but scouts are divided on his ideal position.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 12:34am

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A fragmented, cubist-style painting depicting a football player in motion, with sharp geometric shapes in shades of red, grey, and blue representing the dynamic nature of Arvell Reese's playing style.Arvell Reese's versatility as both a linebacker and edge rusher creates a complex puzzle for NFL teams to solve in the 2026 draft.Columbus Today

Arvell Reese, a standout linebacker from Ohio State, is expected to be one of the top defensive players selected in the 2026 NFL Draft. However, scouts and coaches are unsure whether Reese's best fit is as an off-ball linebacker or as an edge rusher, given his versatility in playing multiple positions for the Buckeyes last season.

Why it matters

Reese's ability to play both linebacker and edge rusher makes him a highly coveted prospect, as teams will have to determine how best to utilize his unique skill set. His versatility could make him a top-10 pick, with the New York Jets and Arizona Cardinals among the teams reportedly interested.

The details

Reese played a hybrid 'joker' role last season under new Ohio State defensive coordinator Matt Patricia, lining up as both an edge rusher and an off-ball linebacker. He excelled in this position, recording 69 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, and 6.5 sacks. Reese's football IQ and ability to make calls on the field have also impressed scouts.

  • Reese will be one of five Ohio State players in the green room at the 2026 NFL Draft on April 23 in Pittsburgh.
  • Reese worked out as both a linebacker and edge rusher at Ohio State's pro day on March 25.

The players

Arvell Reese

A linebacker from Ohio State University who is expected to be one of the top defensive players selected in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Matt Patricia

The defensive coordinator at Ohio State last season, who utilized Reese in a hybrid 'joker' role that allowed him to showcase his versatility.

James Laurinaitis

A former three-time All-American linebacker at Ohio State, who was Reese's position coach.

Darren Mougey

The general manager of the New York Jets, who attended Ohio State's pro day to evaluate Reese.

Aaron Glenn

The head coach of the New York Jets, who attended Ohio State's pro day to evaluate Reese.

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What they’re saying

“Last year, I played everywhere from inside linebackers to SAM (outside) to edge (rusher), so I was comfortable everywhere. My whole role wasn't stationed in one spot. I had to be comfortable in every situation.”

— Arvell Reese

“There's the explosive power and that raw ability that he showed last year, but a lot of those calls he made on the field. And I think you see there that football IQ is at a high level.”

— Matt Patricia, Defensive Coordinator, Ohio State

“In the case of Arvell, he's played off the ball, which was really good. And then he's played on the line of scrimmage, which was really good too. But usually, you'd value higher really the pass rush. So if you can pass rush, you let them line up on the line of scrimmage and pass rush.”

— Monti Ossenfort, General Manager, Arizona Cardinals

What’s next

The New York Jets and Arizona Cardinals, who have the 2nd and 3rd overall picks respectively, will continue to evaluate Reese's versatility and determine how he best fits their defensive schemes.

The takeaway

Arvell Reese's ability to excel at both linebacker and edge rusher makes him a highly coveted prospect, but also creates uncertainty for NFL teams on how to best utilize his unique skill set. His performance at the 2026 NFL Draft will be closely watched as teams seek to add a dynamic defensive playmaker to their rosters.