Arvell Reese Emerges as Favorite to be Second Overall Pick in 2026 NFL Draft

The 2026 NFL Scouting Combine concluded, providing valuable insights for teams preparing for the upcoming draft. While the Las Vegas Raiders are widely expected to select Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza with the first overall pick, the race for the second pick, held by the Recent York Jets, has intensified. Ohio State linebacker Arvell Reese has now turn into the clear favorite to be selected by the Jets, according to DraftKings Sportsbook.

Rising Odds for Reese

DraftKings Sportsbook currently lists Reese at -140 odds to be selected second a significant shift from previous projections where he was considered a favorite at plus money. This change reflects his impressive performance at the combine and the growing belief that he possesses a unique skillset that could immediately impact the Jets’ defense.

Here’s a look at the current odds for the No. 2 overall pick, as of March 2, 2026:

• LB Arvell Reese, Ohio State: -140
• EDGE David Bailey, Texas Tech: +160
• EDGE Rueben Bain Jr., Miami: +800
• S Caleb Downs, Ohio State: +1400
• LB Sonny Styles, Ohio State: +1500
• QB Ty Simpson, Alabama: +4000

Reese’s Combine Performance

While Texas Tech’s David Bailey recorded impressive statistics in 2025 with 14.5 sacks, 19.5 tackles for loss, and 38 quarterback hits – the most by an FBS player since 2016 NFL.com – Reese’s potential is seen as higher. Reese showcased exceptional athleticism at the combine, tying teammate Sonny Styles for the fastest 40-yard dash time of 4.46 seconds. He also demonstrated fluidity in agility drills.

Jets’ Needs and Recent Trade

The Jets have needs across the board, but particularly at both linebacker and pass rusher. Adding to the likelihood of Reese being selected, the Jets recently traded former first-round pass rusher Jermaine Johnson II to the Tennessee Titans in exchange for defensive tackle T’Vondre Sweat. This move suggests the Jets are actively seeking to bolster their pass-rushing capabilities, making Reese an attractive option.

Accolades and Potential

Reese earned Consensus All-American honors, First Team All-Big Ten recognition, and was named Big Ten Linebacker of the Year in 2025. He recorded 69 tackles, 6.5 sacks, and 10 tackles for loss while playing for a loaded Buckeyes defense, ranking among the team leaders in all three categories. At just 20 years old, Reese is considered to have significant room for growth and is expected to continue developing into a dominant player.

While Reese could potentially play either linebacker or pass rusher at the NFL level, his versatility and athleticism produce him a highly coveted prospect for the Jets as they look to rebuild their defense.