As mentioned before, the Cardinals’ pass defense was atrocious in 2025. If anyone can help fix that in 2026, it’s Ohio State freak linebacker Arvell Reese. He measured 6’4 and 241 pounds at the draft combine in Indianapolis. He also ran a 4.46 forty, and every millisecond of that speed shows up on film.

Reese racked up 69 total tackles (10 tackles for a loss) and 6.5 sacks for the Buckeyes last season. He was a consensus All-American and the Big 10 linebacker of the year. He is an elite run defender, but according to him, he is an edge rusher. That could make him a rare dual threat at the next level. He is technically sound, missing only four tackles all year.

His biggest issue is going to be in coverage, but if Reese is used the way he wants, he won’t be dropping back much. He wants to get after the quarterback. The only issue may be that he can beat professionals with raw athleticism like he can 18-year-old kids at Ohio University. He needs to develop moves and learn how to use his hands properly.