Ohio State linebacker Arvell Reese, a Cleveland native and projected second overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, is set to showcase his skills at the NFL Combine this week.
Reese, who had a breakout season in 2025, will participate in various drills, including the highly anticipated 40-yard dash.
Alongside him, fellow linebacker Sonny Styles, also a projected first-round pick, will take part in the Combine.
This event feels huge for both players as they try to lock in their spots on draft boards.
Ohio State’s spring season and upcoming games are stirring up plenty of buzz among fans and analysts, too.
Arvell Reese: Ohio State’s Defensive Powerhouse
Arvell Reese’s path to becoming a top NFL draft prospect is honestly pretty wild.
The Cleveland native went to Glenville High School before landing with the Buckeyes.
He didn’t see the field as a freshman in 2023, but that changed fast.
By 2025, Reese was starting every game, racking up 69 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, and 6.5 sacks.
Stats like those got NFL scouts paying close attention, and now he’s one of the most coveted prospects in the 2026 draft.
Reese’s Performance at the NFL Combine
The NFL Combine is a massive stage for players like Reese to show off their athleticism and skills.
Tom Pelissero from the NFL Network reported that Reese will run in the 40-yard dash and take on a bunch of other drills.
Scouts and analysts will be watching every move, since a strong showing could really lock in his spot as the second overall pick, right behind Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza.
Sonny Styles: Another Buckeye on the Rise
Sonny Styles, from Pickerington, Ohio, is another Ohio State linebacker making noise at the Combine.
He’s a projected first-round pick, and there’s chatter that he could climb even higher on draft day.
Pelissero pointed out that Styles might just blow people away during the drills and testing.
This week could make a big difference for his draft stock and future in the NFL.
Impact of the NFL Combine on Draft Prospects
The NFL Combine isn’t just about showing off physical abilities.
It’s a shot for players to boost their draft stock and show they’re ready for the pros.
For Reese and Styles, crushing the drills could mean the difference between going in the top 10 or sliding a bit further down.
Ohio State Football: Upcoming Events and Key Dates
While the NFL Combine is a big deal for Reese and Styles, Ohio State football has some other dates circled on the calendar.
The Buckeyes’ first spring practice kicks off March 10, 2026, and the Spring Game is set for April 18, 2026.
These are pretty important as the team preps for the new season and checks out fresh talent.
Big Ten Media Days and Season Opener
Big Ten Media Days, happening July 28-30, 2026, give coaches and players a chance to talk with the media and share their thoughts on the upcoming season.
Then there’s the season opener against Ball State on September 5, 2026—always a fun way to kick things off for Ohio State football.
Ohio State Women’s Basketball: A Premier Rivalry
Switching gears, Ohio State’s women’s basketball team is grabbing headlines, too.
The Buckeyes, ranked No. 13, are set to face No. 8 Michigan in a rivalry game at the Schottenstein Center.
Ohio State sits at 23-5 overall and 12-4 in the Big Ten, fresh off an 88-83 win over Southern Cal that snapped a short two-game skid.
Michigan, at 22-5 and 13-3, just took their first loss since February 8, falling to Iowa.
Significance of the Rivalry Game
This matchup means a lot for both teams as they fight for better spots in the Big Ten standings and a higher seed in the NCAA Tournament.
The rivalry just cranks up the energy—should be a can’t-miss game for fans and analysts.
Looking Ahead: Key Dates for Ohio State Football
With the 2026 season approaching, a few dates really stand out for Ohio State football.
The Game against Michigan on November 28, 2026, is always a big one, followed by the Big Ten Championship Game on December 5, 2026.
The College Football Playoff rounds—first round on December 18-19, quarterfinals December 30 and January 1, semifinals January 14-15, and the National Championship Game on January 25, 2027—will decide who comes out on top this season.
Importance of Spring Practice and the Spring Game
Spring practice is a big deal for Ohio State as they gear up for the next season. Coaches get a chance to see what the players can do and try out new ideas.
It’s also a key time to work on team chemistry. The Spring Game, meanwhile, gives fans a first look at how the team might shape up—and honestly, it’s hard not to get a little hyped watching it all unfold.
If you want more details, you can check out the original article on Cleveland.com.
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