The lack of quarterback depth in this year’s draft class has minimized potential trade-up talk, as the Raiders are all set to select Fernando Mendoza to open the draft. But some interesting pass-rushing prospects check in behind the Heisman winner in this year’s prospect pool.
While others are more accomplished rushers, Arvell Reese carries perhaps the biggest upside. That has led the Ohio State hybrid performer to be mocked to the Jets at No. 2 overall frequently. If the Jets are to determine Reese’s developmental track is not for them, other teams in the top 10 would await. A few are doing research on the standout linebacker.
We already heard of Reese meetings with the Jets, Giants, Saints and Cowboys. He has now also met with the Cardinals, Titans and Chiefs, according to NFL.com’s Ian Rapoport and Mike Garafolo. Reese would fill needs in Arizona, Tennessee and Kansas City. The three-year Buckeyes cog is far from the only high-end pass-rushing prospect available, but he is probably the most unique player among this group.
As our Ben Levine noted in January, Reese mostly played linebacker last season at Ohio State. He only logged 97 snaps at the EDGE position in 2025 but still ranked seventh in Division I-FBS pressure rate (18.5%). Reese, who joins linebacker mate Sonny Styles (an ex-safety) in having some position versatility, has expressed a preference to work as a pass rusher in the NFL. Considering his limited reps there, teams will need a clear plan to develop a high-ceiling prospect. But Micah Parsons‘ ascent will undoubtedly be on teams’ minds when evaluating Reese; Abdul Carter also turned a linebacker background into a No. 3 overall draft selection after moving to an EDGE role.
The Cardinals have been regularly given Miami tackle Francis Mauigoa in mock drafts. The recent national championship game starter would fill a glaring right tackle need opposite Paris Johnson Jr., but the Cards could also use help opposite Josh Sweat on the edge. Arizona has a history of selecting hybrid linebacker types, though those choices came under previous GM Steve Keim. Still, the Cardinals drafted the likes of Deone Bucannon, Haason Reddick, Isaiah Simmons and Zaven Collins and used each at multiple positions.
A veteran evaluator recently informed SportsBoom.com’s Jason La Canfora that Reese will be at his best in a 3-4 EDGE role. Neither the Chiefs nor Titans use that scheme, creating some questions about his fit. Though, any team that drafts Reese — thanks to the proliferation of nickel and dime sets — will regularly use him as an edge rusher in a four-man front. The Chiefs and Titans will just use that as their base defense.
More to come.