At this point in the season, there are two main focuses for the New Orleans Saints. First, they need to determine whether rookie Tyler Shough is their quarterback of the future or not. Next, it's time to start looking forward to the 2026 NFL Draft.
The Saints are expected to be picking near the top of the draft once again. The 2026 class isn't necessarily loaded with elite prospects, but there are a few players near the top of the group that look like they have the talent to change the direction of a franchise.
There are still months to go before the Saints are on the clock, but Ohio State defender Arvell Reese is already making a strong case to be their top pick.
Arvell Reese could be Saints' next superstar defender
The Saints' defense is in desperate need of an injection of young talent. Aging stars like Cameron Jordan and Demario Davis will soon need to pass the torch to a new generation of leaders. If they're picking near the top of the draft again, it'll be difficult to pass up a chance at bringing in Reese.
At 6'4" and nearly 250 pounds, Reese is a menacing presence on the field. He uses his physicality to consistently overpower opposing players.
The Ohio State defender brings a unique level of versatility to the table. The Buckeyes use him primarily as an off-ball linebacker. In that position, his instincts and athleticism steal the spotlight. He seems to anticipate offensive plays, breaking quickly to where the ball is headed. Reese is surprisingly effective in pass coverage, showing impressive fluidity for a player of his size.
While he spends most of his time at linebacker, many NFL scouts expect him to move to the edge at the next level. In his limited snaps at the position, he shows dangerous explosiveness and flexibility as a pass rusher. His long arms and lateral agility make him a terror for opposing offensive linemen. Despite not playing full-time on the defensive line, Reese has tallied 6.5 sacks this season.
If Saints owner Gayle Benson's recent quotes are any indication, general manager Mickey Loomis isn't going anywhere. He'll likely be the one making this pick, and Reese doesn't quite fit his typical preferences for defensive ends. Still, the Ohio State defender's lack of size can be overlooked due to his elite athleticism and versatility. He could become the centerpiece of the Saints' defense for years to come.