2026 NFL Draft Picks: Top Prospects & Team Needs

The 2026 NFL draft promises to be one of the most exciting selections in recent memory, with a deep pool of talent spanning across all positions and rounds. As teams prepare their draft boards and conduct extensive film reviews, scouts and analysts are working overtime to identify not only the marquee prospects who will be selected early, but also the undervalued gems that could transform franchises in later rounds. This year's draft class features several generational talents who could reshape defensive and offensive units across the league, while also presenting numerous opportunities for teams looking to address critical roster needs through strategic pick management.

One of the most compelling prospects heading into draft season is Arvell Reese, the versatile linebacker and edge rusher from Ohio State University. Reese represents a rare breed of defensive prospect—a player with the elite athleticism and football intelligence to excel at multiple positions at the professional level. His combination of size, speed, and instincts has created significant debate among evaluators about his optimal position at the next level, with some teams viewing him as a traditional linebacker while others believe his future lies as a full-time pass rusher.

What makes Reese such a fascinating prospect is his unprecedented skill set for his size and position versatility. He possesses the lateral agility and pursuit speed typically associated with elite linebackers, while simultaneously demonstrating the explosive first-step and edge-bending ability required of modern-day edge defenders. His football intelligence stands out on tape, as he processes plays quickly and rarely finds himself out of position. The raw power he displays when engaging blockers or attacking the quarterback suggests he can succeed as an edge rusher, while his coverage skills and ability to flow to the ball indicate his capability to thrive in traditional linebacker roles.