Ohio State linebacker Arvell Reese makes decision on NFL future

Ohio State linebacker Arvell Reese has declared for the NFL draft in what was an expected move. With the potential to be a top-five pick, Reese will forgo his senior season in Scarlet and Gray and test his fortune at the next level.

After serving in a backup role in his first two years, Reese had a breakout campaign in his junior year. He flourished under Matt Patricia's leadership, tallying 69 tackles, 10 tackles for a loss, and 6.5 sacks while earning All-American honors. Reese would also be named Big Ten Linebacker of the Year.

Draft Expert Mel Kiper Jr. has Reese ranked as the No. 4 overall prospect. Kiper really likes what he sees in Reese, saying, "This is a complete football player. Reese jumps off the Ohio State tape, playing the game like a veteran. I see natural instincts at the linebacker position that allow him to make plays most guys just can't make, and he has the burst to get home when turned loose as a pass rusher. Reese has been a big riser in this class."

He has been compared to former Penn State and current Green Bay linebacker Micah Parsons. Just like Parsons, he's a freak athlete who can do a lot of different things.

Breaking: Ohio State LB Arvell Reese announced he has declared for the 2026 NFL draft.

Reese is @MelKiperESPN No. 4 overall prospect.

(📸 arvxii/IG) pic.twitter.com/WdX7TYW1LE— ESPN College Football (@ESPNCFB) January 8, 2026

Reese is the third Buckeye to declare for the draft a year early, joining Carnell Tate and Caleb Downs. Ohio State is waiting on one more big name that could make an early jump to the NFL, that being Kayden McDonald. Downs, Tate, and Reese all project as first-round picks. McDonald also ranks as a first-round prospect.

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This article originally appeared on Buckeyes Wire: Ohio State All-American Arvell Reese announces future NFL plans