The 2026 NFL Draft is set to begin in Pittsburgh on Thursday, with the Las Vegas Raiders expected to select Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick. The New York Jets, holding the No. 2 selection, are widely projected to draft Arvell Reese, an edge rusher from Ohio State. Reese, an All-American in 2025 and a national champion with the Buckeyes in 2024, is described as a high-impact defensive player who brings relentless effort and physicality to the game.
Core Facts:
- The Jets are strongly favored to select Reese at No. 2, following a trend of mock drafts favoring edge rushers early in the first round.
- Reese emphasizes his aggressive playing style, stating that NFL teams will get a player who 'plays the game violently' and with relentless effort.
Deeper Dive & Context:
Prospect Analysis:
Reese is one of several Ohio State prospects expected to go in the first round, including David Bailey (Texas Tech) and Carnell Tate (Ohio State). The draft is anticipated to feature a mix of edge rushers, receivers, and running backs, with the Rams and Browns among the teams targeting pass catchers.
Team Strategies:
The Raiders, with the worst offense in the league last season, are prioritizing a franchise quarterback in Mendoza. Meanwhile, the Jets are seeking a defensive anchor, with Reese seen as a potential Micah Parsons-level impact player. The Cardinals and Titans are also expected to address defensive needs early in the draft.
Draft History:
The NFL Draft was invented in Pittsburgh in 1935 to promote competitive balance, a principle that has shaped the league's structure ever since. This year's draft marks the first time Pittsburgh has hosted the event since its inception.