Ohio State's Arvell Reese Shines at 2026 NFL Combine

Linebacker prospect wows scouts with elite speed and athleticism

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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Ohio State linebacker Arvell Reese turned heads at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine, posting impressive workout numbers that cemented his status as a projected top-5 draft pick. Reese clocked a blazing 4.46-second 40-yard dash, the fastest time among all defensive linemen and linebackers, and also recorded a 1.58-second 10-yard split, tying for the best mark among edge rushers. Scouts and analysts praised Reese's versatility, with ESPN's Louis Riddick describing him as a 'consummate Joker' who can play multiple positions.

Why it matters

Reese's standout performance at the Combine further solidifies his standing as one of the top defensive prospects in the 2026 NFL Draft class. His elite speed, athleticism and positional flexibility make him an intriguing option for teams looking to add a dynamic playmaker to their defense.

The details

In addition to his blazing 40-yard dash time, Reese also impressed with a 1.58-second 10-yard split, tying for the fastest mark among edge rushers. Analysts praised his versatility, noting that he could thrive in a hybrid role that allows him to play both off-ball linebacker and edge rusher. Reese said he envisions himself playing outside linebacker and rushing the passer in the NFL, though he acknowledged he has more room to develop as a pass rusher.

  • Reese clocked his 4.46-second 40-yard dash on Thursday, February 27, 2026 at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis.
  • Reese's 1.58-second 10-yard split was also recorded on February 27, 2026 at the Combine.

The players

Arvell Reese

A linebacker prospect from Ohio State University who is widely projected as a top-5 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Sonny Styles

Reese's teammate at Ohio State, who also had an impressive showing at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine.

Louis Riddick

An ESPN NFL analyst who praised Reese's versatility and potential to play a 'Joker' role in the NFL.

Trevor Sikkema

An analyst at Pro Football Focus (PFF) who believes Reese's best fit is in a space-oriented role where he can use his athleticism to hunt the ball.

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What they’re saying

“He is the consummate Joker, as they call him. It's exactly what they did in Dallas, when Micah Parsons was initially there, that's what they did. First and second down, you play off-ball. Third down, maybe you move down on the outside on the edge, maybe we rush you in the middle, in the A and B gap. We can move you all over the place, have it be gameplan-specific.”

— Louis Riddick, ESPN NFL Analyst (ESPN)

“I want Reese's home to be in space. The more opportunities he has to hunt the ball and use that rare C.O.D. the better. That happens far less as a primary edge defender.”

— Trevor Sikkema, Analyst (PFF)

What’s next

Reese will continue to meet with NFL teams and participate in Ohio State's pro day in the coming weeks as he looks to solidify his status as a top draft pick.

The takeaway

Arvell Reese's standout performance at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine has only enhanced his reputation as one of the most versatile and dynamic defensive prospects in this year's draft class. His elite speed, athleticism and positional flexibility make him an intriguing option for teams looking to add a playmaker to their defense.